The Stocklists - April 2013

Stocklistswith1 April 2013 FlooringNews

The

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

2 THE STOCKLISTS April 2013

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StocklistsThe

FIRST FOR FLOORING NEWS AND DATA

Classified advertising............................................................................page 66, 67

� carpets/rugs/tiles woods/laminates/smooths � fibres � underlay � accessories/services/organisations � wholesalers/distributors � adhesives

Carpet Company DirectoryOur line-up of the leading players pages 12-13

Carpet Trouble-shooterAll about stains, spots and shading pages 10-11

Carpet TypesThe starter guide for picking a pile page 5

UnderlayUnderstanding underlay types and selection page 9

Wholesaler Distribution DirectoryNational & regional guide to distributors pages 14-16

Wool Fibre PageA checklist of natural fibre characteristics page 17

Woolsafe: the carpet care guideHow to protect and clean wool carpets pages 6-7

UK manufactured Carpet Cutting MachinesWWW.CARPETCUTTINGMACHINES.CO.UK

FlooringFactsheets

AdhesivesExpertise advice from F Ball page 4

Buying GroupsChoosing the right organisation for you pages 8

Monthly ‘Stocklisters’ shown in BOLD

Index Page Contact Price No No List Date

AVENUE 47 +32 5665 3211 —

�ADAM CARPETS — 01562 82 9966 —

� BGNFS 43 — —

�BONDWORTH 18 01562 745000 June 2011

� BRITISH WOOL 45 01274 688 666 —

�BROCKWAY CARPETS LTD. 19 01562 828200 Feb 2012

� BRONTË 20 01282 862736 —

�CAMPAIGN FOR WOOL 54 — —

�CARPENTER BC 01457 861141 —

� COLUMBIA FLOORING 21 0208 443 3322 —

�CORMAR — 01204 881234 —

�DYNE 41 0161 877 8877 —

� F. BALL 4 01538 361633 —

� FITA 48 01159 506836 —

� FLOORWISE 16 01509 673974 —

� FURLONG FLOORING 22,23 01772 696787 Nov 2010

�GEORGIAN — 01827 831430 —

� INTERFLOOR 35 01706 213131 —

� JOHN LANHAM WATTS 24 01937 588511 —

�KINGSMEAD 39 01827 831424 —

LEOLINE — 0800 032 3211 —

�MANX 37 01827 831436 —

�MASTER WEAVERS 25 01562 754382 —

�MAYFIELD — 01706 639866 —

�MERRYFIELD 65 01422 373799 —

�MOHAWK 26 01480 479830 —

�NICF 48 0115 958 3077 —

�NOVOSTRAT — 00353 61 339287 —

QA PRODUCTS 59 0151 427 6000 —

� RACKHAMS 27 020 85319225 —

� SOLENT WHOLESALE CARPET 28 01243 774623 Mar/Apr 2013

� STS FLOORING DISTRIBUTORS 29 0845 341000 Jan 2013

�TELENZO 30 01422 374417 —

� THE FLOORING SHOW 53 01423 779967 —

�T & E DISPLAY GROUP 51 0121 585 7600 —

�WESTON HAMMER 31 0845 644 9090 —

3THE STOCKLISTS April 2013

Published by Mayville Publishing Co Ltd., 219West 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

© Mayville Publishing Co. Ltd. 2012. Every care is taken in compiling this magazine, but the proprietors assume no responsibility in the effects arising therefrom.

ISSUE 457: 1 APRIL 2013

FlooringNews starts on page 33

The wow of woolWool makes a grand entrance atSomerset House page 54-57

News

Save the date!15 May 2013

THE BUYING GROUP SHOW THAT BRINGS TOGETHER MORE MANUFACTURERS THAN ANY OTHER UK EVENT

Optimism at AxminsterHope for manufacturing rescuepage 44

Voice of the Trade“Strength in numbers’through buying groupspage 42

Semi-commercialA new sector for retailerspage 33

Fresh and funkySmart stripes updated

page 33

On Display 2013Some of the season’s top POS systems

page 49

Training for successDennis Flower on skilling up

page 61

Survey: WholesalersOutperforming manufacturers on service? page 58

Adhesives

Flooring Factsheet


TUFTED

With advances in manufacturing technology, 95% of all carpet producedtoday is tufted. It takes about an hour to make a roll of carpet thatmight take eight hours to weave. To make tufted carpet, hundreds ofyarn-threaded needles are pushed through the primary backing fabricto form loops or tufts, which may be left as is or cut. A heavy adhesive coating is applied to hold the tufts in place and asecondary backing is usually glued on for strength and stability. A wide variety of styles and textures can then be created using various techniques.

LOOP PILEBerber • Berber carpets look like and are named after a handmade,bulky wool carpet made by the Berber tribes of North Africa and Asia.The loops are made from thick or bulky yarns of wool, nylon,polypropylene or a blend of these fibres to give a cushioned effectunderfoot. These carpets are available in an assortment of colours andmay be flecked and can be either level loop or multilevel loop.

Level loop • When all the loops are of the same height, a highlyflexible and durable carpet is created which has a natural, casualappearance even when (commonly) it is made from synthetic fibres.The tight loop texture tends to hide marks so it’s a good blendbetween luxury and practicality.

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

CUT PILE Freize • Frieze (pronounced free-say) carpets are similar to saxony,but the yarns are more tightly twisted and should always be heat set.They have a dense, low pile surface which creates a coarse, pebblytexture. Frieze carpets are very durable and hide footprints, dust anddirt, which makes them suitable for heavy traffic areas.

Saxony • Saxony textures are made of twisted yarns, which should beheat set. The tips remain very distinct, rather than blending together toform a very elegant finish. Saxony textures show footprints and vacuummarks so are suitable for more occasional rooms in the home. Moretextured variations improve the practicality of saxonies.

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

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

WOVEN

Woven carpet may be in a tiny minority of today’s production but

still produces some of the finest carpets which are used for

prestigious installations.

Axminster • The pile of the carpet is inserted into the backing asit is woven and cut to length, creating U-shaped tufts to give a

velvety surface. The process locks in the fibre to create a carpet of

high durability and performance retention as well as a luxury feel.

The process allows for intricate designs and colours to be used –

although modern trends mean that the traditional patterned

axminster has given way to current fashion trends for plain carpets.

Wilton • Wilton woven carpets are produced in a similar way toaxminsters – the principal difference being that a continuous fibre is

woven all the way through. The carpet can be sheared to create a

range of cut and loop textured effects. The result is a high quality

carpet of unrivalled durability.

Flat weave • Manufactured in the same way as wilton, flat weaveis a loop pile which allows the yarn to be woven across a wider

area to created a flatter, more textured effect.

ends blend together which then further enhances the overall finish.These carpets tend to ‘shade’ with heavy use. Footprints show easilyand the colour looks different from place to place because fibres lyingin different directions reflect the light differently. A luxury foroccasional rooms.

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

Shag pile • Shag pile has varied in popularity. The pile is up to50mm long and the texture is casual and loose but the surfaceflattens easily and lacks durability.

BONDEDBonded carpets (sometimes called ‘fibre-bonded’ or ‘fusion bonded’)are created by firing fibres into an adhesive material – the fibres arenot stitched into the backing in any way. The technique is principallyused for commercial carpet tiles.

Tip Sheared Level Loop

Random Sheared Multi-Level Loop

V

Velvet/Plush Frieze

Twist Berber

S

Saxony Sha

Shag

Flooring factsheet

Carpet types


Flooring factsheetCarpet care guide from WOOLSAFE

Entrance or walk-off matsThe use of entrance mats at all outside entrances tothe house is highly recommended, as they willsignificantly reduce the rate at which the carpet willsoil. They should be of adequate size to allow streetdirt to be removed from shoe soles and must becleaned regularly themselves.

Regular MaintenanceRegular cleaning will extend the life of a carpet andmaintain its appearance. Vacuum clean regularly andthoroughly, which removes gritty dirt that can damagethe fibres.

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

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

Never use any detergents such as dishwashingliquids, soaps or other cleaners recommended forgeneral household use. Although they may clean thecarpet satisfactorily they will almost certainly causeproblems such as rapid re-soiling, colour bleeding orother damage to the pile or backing of the carpet.

Use only WOOLSAFE approved products

WOOLSAFE-approved carpetcare products have beenindependently andscientifically tested and aresafe and effective forcleaning and maintaining alltypes of carpets and rugs.

Housekeeping Tips for Carpets and Rugs

Services for RetailersCustomer carpet care HELPLINE If you have trouble dealing with customer querieslike “How do I get red wine stains out of my carpet?”Just give them our HELPLINE 01943 850 817and we’ll give them the correct advice. Simple.

Certified Operator NetworkFor experienced, specialist wool carpet cleanersyou can trust visit: www.woolsafe.org/find/a-registered-carpet-cleaner.

WOOLSAFE Registered InspectorsSolve disputes with customers with ourindependent carpet complaint Investigators. Justvisit: www.woolsafe.org/find/a-registered-carpet-inspector and call your nearest inspector.

WOOLSAFEApproved ProductsHave confidence in the cleaning product yourecommend, use the WOOLSAFE ApprovedProducts Directory it contains only safe andeffective carpet cleaning products. For spotremovers visit: www.woolsafe.org/spotremovers

Carpet Care LeafletsWe offer to help you develop custom carpet careliterature and we also offer generic carpet careleaflets designed to be given away with each cut ofcarpet. Correct carpet maintenance shouldstart from day one.

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

Contact us by email, telephone or post to:

The WOOLSAFE Organisation49 Boroughgate, Otley, LS29 8NRTel: 01943 850817 E-mail: [email protected] or visitwww.woolsafe.org

The WOOLSAFE Organisation – promotingquality carpet and rug care since 1991.

Europe – North America - Australia WOOLSAFE The Retailer's single source solutionfor carpet care advice and services.

Periodic CleaningWhen the carpet or rug reaches a stage where itcould do with a really good clean, you can either dothe job yourself, or you can call in a specialist carpetcleaning company.

If you are considering cleaning the carpet or rugyourself make sure to use only WOOLSAFEapproved products. Look for the WOOLSAFE Markon the bottle or package.

It is best to engage theservices of a professionalcarpet & upholstery cleaningcompany.To get a really expertjob done entrust the work to aWOOLSAFE accredited carpetcleaning company.

These companies are fully trained, have been inbusiness for a considerable length of time, aremembers of one or more recognised professionaltrade associations related to the cleaning industryand have a reputation for top quality service. Andthey use only WOOLSAFE-approved cleaningagents on your wool carpets and rugs!

If you have a problem with a carpet or rugthat requires an independent inspector, a network ofcarpet complaint investigators, trained and registeredby The WOOLSAFE Organisation is availablethroughout the UK and Ireland.

WOOLSAFE Registered Inspectorshave extensive experience ininvestigating the causes for carpetcomplaints based on their practicalinvolvement with carpets and rugsover many years.

They are fully qualified toinvestigate carpet and rug complaints on-site onbehalf of carpet manufacturers, retailers, cleaningcompanies and carpet owners. They can carry out orcommission tests where required, and will providecomprehensive reports.

To contact an inspector in your area call 01943 462127, email: [email protected], orvisit: www.woolsafe.org / Private Householder /Registered Inspectors

The Green WOOLSAFEMark identifies thoseproducts that not onlyare the most suitablefor wool and other qualitycarpets, but also havethe rightenvironmentalcharacteristics.


maintenance • cleaning • spot removal • protection • inspection

The Clean Carpet you Expect... the Service you Deserve

www.servicemasterclean.co.uk

Environmentally Aware forSuperior Carpet Carewww.envirodri.com

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, toiletroll or clean cloth

• Scoop up or scrape off solids

• Try to identify unknown spots prior to treatment – ifunsure, 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; workinto the spot with a small, soft brush or sponge

• Take care with applying solvents to bitumen-backedcarpet tiles

• When using solvents always ensure there is plenty offresh air ventilation

• Always thoroughly rinse out water-based spotterswith 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 strongerspot removers. Some stains you may find impossible toremove completely in which case the assistance of aprofessional carpet cleaner is required.

Life inspired cleaning innovationswww.bissell.com

WOOLSAFE ApprovedCarpet Cleaning Productswww.prochem.co.uk

Home of the Legendary CleaningProduct - Carpet Powerwww.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 if itdoesn’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 ofthe floor retailing scene in the last decade or so, givingindependents the extra edge they need to competeeffectively with the retail park chains.

More than 1000 retailers are now members of one ofthe several buying groups which operate in our sectorand 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 ofsurrendering some control to a committee – and mostparticularly compromising long-established relationshipsand negotiated terms with current suppliers.

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

Buying Groups

Pick the right onewww.smg-group.co.ukContact: Mike SymondsTel: 0118 932 [email protected]

www.greendalecarpets.co.ukContact: Rob HardingTel: 01432 852000Fax: 01432 852005

[email protected]

Key benefitsIncrease margins

• Group purchases to get beneficial rates• Rebates• Exclusive higher-margin products• Special promotionsOne of the key reasons to join a buying group is tobenefit from the discounts they negotiate as a bulk buyerfrom manufacturers. The way discounts and rebates arepassed on to members varies between groups so makesure it’s absolutely clear how this will be done. You’ll needto work out how this compares with discounts you havealready negotiated locally with preferred suppliers.

Increase sales

• ‘Best of both worlds’ proposition•Wider ranges and exclusive products• POS, displays and merchandising supportYour customers will like the proposition that you areindependent but with the buying power of a group – thisgives 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 bodiesSome buying groups offer an excellent range of otherservices which may be valuable to your business. Financialservices include invoice factoring, credit, loans andinsurance. 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• HelplineA 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 and workshopsto help you develop your business. The network givesyou someone to call when you need advice on, forexample, an unusual installation, a technical consumercomplaint, legal issue or business dilemma.

www.flooringone.co.ukContact: Glenn HardingTel: 0121 683 1426

[email protected]

Metro Groupwww.carpet1st.co.ukContact: Jill CowardTel: 01204 393539

[email protected]

Associated Carpet Groupwww.smartercarpets.co.ukContact: Richard MooreTel: 01942 825520

[email protected]@smartercarpets.com

www.beautifulflooring.co.ukContact: Paul PhillipsTel: 01892 [email protected]


Flooring factsheet

Good underlay will...• Improve underfoot comfort• Increase appearance retention, reducing flattening• Absorb the pressure of foot traffic and reduce wear• Improve thermal insulation and warmth• Increase sound insulation• Smooth out sub-floor imperfections• Last the lifetime of the carpetPoor 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 StandardsHow thick? A maximum of 12mm is recommended (working withgripper will be difficult thereafter) but rooms with heavytraffic will need a thinner, denser pad. The combination ofthickness and density is all important as a thick underlaywith low density may not perform well. Typically, thethicker the underlay, the better quality it will need tobe – 11mm is often used for luxury installations with9mm and 7mm the common domestic thickness.

In a tight market for margins, underlay for carpet andlaminate flooring offers retailers one of the bestopportunities to add value to every sale – with goodprofitability, trade-up potential once benefits areunderstood and high satisfaction levels with customers.

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

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

Setting up in-store demonstrations so customers canwalk on samples with different grades of underlay andfeel the difference has shown excellent results – somemanufacturers offer point-of-sale units.

Underlay

Sponge rubberThe 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) foamPU 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 densities – and its light weight helpshandling. The product can be re-cycled again after use.

Crumb rubberFlat and dense, crumb rubber is good for heavy footfall - offering maximum protection but a little less comfort(and very good over stair nosings).

Laminate underlayThere’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.

CombinationA 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 underlayAlways 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.

FeltThis 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 underlayA self-adhesive single stick underlay in both needlefeltand PU. A removable system for heavy use when comfortis desired.

Benefitswww.numa-online.co.uk

www.underlay.com

www.interfloor.com

www.interfloor.com

www.carpenter.limited.uk

www.floorwise.co.uk

Types

Sponge rubber Crumb

Combination PU foam


COLOUR MATCHINGCarpets are produced in batches - known as creels- and usually each batch produces between 500m2

- 3000m2 in a single width, depending on the creelsize. Whilst the recipe used by the dyer remainsconstant, 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 on blendedcolours (Heathers etc). To ensure perfect colourmatching it is advisable that a single width be usedin any installation requiring exact colour matching.

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 not befrom the same batch as current production andtherefore should be used as a guide and not anexact 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 is onlya small fraction of the total fibre contained in thecarpet.

PULLED LOOPSPulled loops occur only in looped pile carpetwhere one or more loops in the continuous pile ispulled through the primary backing of the carpet.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 offending endlevel with the rest of the pile. They should not beleft as this could result in further loops being pulledand developing into a ladder.

SPROUTINGOccasionally an odd tuft or two can work its wayto the surface and stand proud of the rest of the pile. This is probably due to one end of the tuft being longer than the other i.e. J shaped tuftinstead of V shaped. Remedial action merelyrequires that the offending tufts be scissortrimmed level with the rest of the pile. They shouldnever be pulled out.

SHADINGShading occurs because the pile of the carpet hasbecome crushed, flattened or brushed in a differentdirection to the natural lie of the pile whilst in situ.This causes light reflection at differing anglesresulting in the creation of light and dark patcheson the carpet. This will occur on all pile fabrics butcan be more noticeable on plainer carpets becausethe shadows created by pile pressure will not bedisguised by a heavy pattern 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).

This information is given by

responsible manufacturers

to help you help your

customer to make

an informed choice.

The original carpet tile

Flooring factsheetCarpet trouble-shooter • shedding • pulled loops


PILE REVERSAL(SEE SHADING)

Like shading, this occurs when the pile or nap of thecarpet changes direction and thus reflects light atdifferent angles showing the effects of shading whichcan become permanent. It is also described as‘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 disguise theeffects. It can occur quite quickly after installation.A tremendous amount of research has been carriedout over many years by many institutes todetermine the cause of this phenomenon but none of it has proved conclusive. There is nocommonly known manufacturing process which cancause or cure this phenomenon and therefore it is not a manufacturing fault. For furtherinformation 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 considerable time,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 spread theload and the net result is a larger area of less deeplyindented 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 to beevaluated 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 up thepile can be beneficial. Care must be take not toover 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 greater orlesser degree dependant on the amount of trafficto which it is subjected and the construction (tuft density/pile fibre/height/weight) of the productconcerned.

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 dust sometimesshows itself as spots on the carpet, this is due tothe air carried on a draught under the carpetescaping through minute holes both in the underlay and the carpet, leaving dust deposited on the pile much like a filter action. In suchinstallations, the use of a lining paper is essential as a 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 complaint isto be avoided.

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

This information is given by

responsible manufacturers

to help you help your

customer to make

an informed choice.

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


Abingdon Flooring 01274 655694

Adam Carpets Ltd Be Tu Tw W Ww 01562 829966

Alternative Flooring 01264 335111

Associated Weavers Tw Tu 01422 431100

Avena Carpets Ltd Tu Ww 01422 330261

Axwoven Carpets Ltd Ax Be 0121 550 5788

Axminster Carpets Ltd Ax Be Tw 01297 32244

Bajong Carpets NV Tu Tw W +32 56783250

Balta Industries Tu Tw W Ww +32 56 62 2211

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

Belvedere Carpets Tu W 020 8800 [email protected]

Betap Tufting BV Tu Tw W +31 383 861 060

BIC Carpets Be Tw W +32 56 23 54 10

Bizspoke Custom Carpets Be Tw W 01924 488882

Blenheim Carpets Ax Be Tw W Ww 020 7823 3040

BMK 0113 380 5333

Bond Worth Ltd Ax 01562 745000

Brintons Ax Tu Tw W Ww 0800 505055

Brockway Carpets Ltd Tw W 01562 [email protected] www.brockway.co.uk

Bronte Carpets Ltd Be Tu Tw W 01282 862 [email protected] www.brontecarpets.co.uk

Burmatex Tu 01924 262525

Cavalier Carpets Ltd Ax Be Tu Tw W Ww 01254 268000

Christy Carpets Tu 019078 308777

Clarendon Carpets Tw 01675 433066

Classis Carpets Tu W Ww 0870 020 1725

Condor Carpets BV Tu +31 38 4778911

Cormar Carpets Ltd Tu Tw W 01204 881 [email protected] www.cormarcarpets.co.uk

Couristan Carpets Ax Tu W Ww 800 223 6186

Craigie Carpets Be 01294 558400

Creative Carpets Ltd Be Tu Tw W 0116 284 1455

Creatuft Carpets Tu W +32 56 35 4444

Custom Carpet Company Ax Be Tu Tw W Ww 01737 830301

Dan-Floor UK W 0844 9151000

Domo Floorcovering Pr Tu Tw +32 55 335211

Drury Lane Carpets Ltd Be Tu Tw W 01254 296829

E & WE Carpets W 01562 825952

Edel Telenzo Carpets Ltd Tu Tw W 01422 374 [email protected] www.edeltelenzocarpets.co.uk

Enterprise Weaving Co Be Ww 01562 745030

Fells Carpets Ww 01977 [email protected] www.fellscarpets.co.uk

Fetcham Furnishings Ltd Tw 020 8944 6220

Fletco Taepper A/S Tu W +45 96 60 3000

Firth Carpets & Flooring Be Pr Tu Tw W Ww 01484 721529

Furlong Flooring Tw W 01772 696 [email protected] www.furlongflooring.co.uk

The Stocklists

Carpet Company Directory

Edel Telenzo’s Bakerloo Brockway’s VogueMohawk’s Cherbourg Check

Belvedere Carpets


Gaskell Wool Rich Tu Tw W 01827 831525

Gaskell Mackay Carpets Ltd Ax Tu Tw W 01429 892525

Georgian Carpets Tu Tw W 01827 831430

Godfrey Hirst (GB) Ltd Tu 0800 526696

Halbmond Teppichwerke Be Pr Tu +49 037 421 420

Heckmondwike FB 01924 410544

ITC Be Pr Tw Tu 0032 51 424 411

John Lanham Watts Carpets Ax Tw Ww 01937 588511

John Evans Ltd Ax Tu Tw W 07850 935301

Joseph Hamilton & Seaton W 01827 831400

Kingsmead Carpets Tu Tw W 01827 831 424

Lano NV Ax Pr Tu Tw W Ww +32 56 65 [email protected] www.lano.com

Le Tissage d'Arcade Ax Ww +32 05685 4747

Lecaflor Ltd Ax Be Pr Tu Tw W Ww 0800 78 33 712

Leigh Spinners Ltd Tw 01942 673232

Louis de Poortere W +32 56 393 386

Lusotufo Tu 01388 664101

Manx Carpets Tw W 01827 831 434

Master Weaver W Ww 01562 754 382

Mayfield Carpets Tu Tw W 01706 639 866

MID NL Be +31 38 851 8700

Modulyss Be Tu Tw Pr +32 52 457211

Mohawk Europe 01480 [email protected] 01480 471304www.mohawkinternational.com

Mr Tomkinson Tw Ww 01827 831 450

Ossfloor UK 01675 433031

Penthouse Carpets Tu Tw W 01706 341231

Phoenox Textiles Pr Tu 01484 863227

Pownall CarpetsTw W 0845 6528811

Roger Vanden Berghe.NV Tu Ww +32 56 73 57 11

Ryalux Carpets Ltd Be Tu Tw W 0845 652 8811

Sans Frontieres Ltd Be Pr Tu Tw W Ww 0844 5611977

Shaw Home Foundations Tu 01675 433 501

Signature Carpets Be Tu W 01422 845075

TAT Carpet 07976 607657

Tapibel NV Pr Tu Tw 01623 481 221

Tasibel NV Tw +32 52 499600

The Grosvenor Wilton Co W Ww 01562 701456

The Sultana Carpet Co Ax 01299 822300

The Wilton Carpet Co Ax W Ww 0845 296 8850

Thomas Witter UK Ltd Tu Tw 0870 1128318

Timzo Tufting Industry BV Tu +31 38 385 4477

Tisca Tiara Tu Ww 07860 911748

Trendy Tuft Designs Be Tu Tw W 01274 855080

Ulster Carpets Ax Be Tu Tw W Ww 02838 334433

United Carpets & Beds Tw W Ww 01709 732 666

Victoria Carpets Tu Tw W Ww 01562 749300

Vorwerk 08700 104484

Westex Carpets Tu 01274 861334

Weston Hammer W 0845 644 9090

Whitestone Weavers Ltd Ax Be Tu Tw W Ww 01429 892555

Wilkies Carpets Tw 0113 307 9955

Woodward Grosvenor Ax Tu Tw W Ww 0800 526696

Wool Classics Tu Ww 0207 349 1560

Woven Carpets of Kidderminster W 01299 827477

Bronte’s Cream Shagpile Cormar’s Berwick Wellington Stripe from Ulster

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

If you would like to be included in this section or upgrade your listing, please contact Diane Martin on +44 (0)1482 659396

or email [email protected]

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


The StocklistsWholesale Distribution DirectoryNationalMercadoLeeds0113 [email protected]

Fells CarpetsGoole01977 [email protected]

North EastCarpet & Flooring Gateshead0191 482 [email protected]


Floorwise (North East) Ltd Birtley - see Floorwise p16

Vanguard CarpetsRedditch0845 601 1189customerservices.redditch@carpetandflooring.co.ukwww.vanguardcarpets.co.uk

Wood Floor SalesRedditch01527 511888help.redditch@carpetandflooring.co.ukwww.woodfloorsales.com

North West A&A CarpetsManchester01204 [email protected]

D. M. Miller LtdManchester0161 205 [email protected]


Green Tree DistributionStone, Staffordshire01785 [email protected]

Lee Floorstok LtdLiverpool - see Floorwise p16

Lee Floorstok LtdManchester - see Floorwise p16

MCA Floorwise LtdMorecambe - see Floorwise p16

Mytton Flooring Norwich - see Floorwise p16

Millbrook CarpetsDarwen01254 [email protected]


Carpet & FlooringManchester0161 786 6800manchester@carpetandflooring.co.ukwww.carpetandflooring.co.uk


MidlandsCarpet & Flooring Birmingham0121 421 9131birmingham@carpetandflooring.co.ukwww.carpetandflooring.co.uk

DMS Flooring SuppliesNorthampton0845 643 [email protected]

Floorwise D & J LtdSoutham - see Floorwise p16

Green Tree DistributionStone, Staffordshire01785 [email protected]

J J Wholesale & Distribution LtdBirmingham0121 765 [email protected]

RPS FlooringMansfield Woodhouse - see Floorwise p16

STS Flooring DistributorsWatford08454 342000

[email protected]

www.stsflooring.com

see page 29 for details



Woodall Brothers Ltd Shrewsbury - see Floorwise p16

EastBeds FlooringBedford01234 [email protected] www.bedsflooring.co.uk

Faithfull FloorcoveringSuffolk01473 [email protected]

STS Flooring Distributors LtdCambridgeTel: 01954 [email protected] page 29 for details



South EastAcorn Carpet AccessoriesBromley, Kent - see Floorwise p16

Ashmount Flooring SuppliesLtd Tottenham0208 808 [email protected]

Beds FlooringBedford01234 [email protected] www.bedsflooring.co.uk

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


The StocklistsWholesale Distribution DirectoryCarpet & FlooringBow020 8525 [email protected]

Carpet & Flooring Camberley01276 672100camberley@carpetandflooring.co.ukwww.carpetandflooring.co.uk

Clifford Floors Strood01634 [email protected]

Culpeck Strood01634 [email protected] .com

Columbia FlooringMiddlesex020 8443 [email protected] page 21 for details

DMS Flooring SuppliesHemel Hempstead0845 643 [email protected]

DMS Flooring SuppliesMilton Keynes0845 643 [email protected]

Faithfulls Service CentreKent01322 285001

Faithfulls Service CentreWalthamstow0208 498 [email protected]

Faithfull FloorcoveringSuffolk01473 [email protected]

Kent Flooring Supplies LtdChatham01634 [email protected]

Littner HamptonLondon020 8520 [email protected]

Potts & Ward, Woodcocks LtdBrighton01273 [email protected]

RackhamsLondon020 8531 [email protected] page 27 for details

Salesmark Lancing - see Floorwise p16

Solent Wholesale CarpetWest Sussex01243 [email protected] page 28 for details

STS Flooring Distributors Orpington/Croydon0845 434 [email protected] page 29 for details


Wessex Flooring Amesbury - see Floorwise p16


South West Carpet & Flooring Bristol0117 316 [email protected]

Fitwell Flooring Ltd Redruth - see Floorwise p16

Fitwell Flooring LtdNewton Abott - see Floorwise p16

Solent Wholesale CarpetWest Sussex01243 [email protected] page 28 for details

STS Flooring DistributorsThame (Oxford)01844 [email protected] page 29 for details



ScotlandCarpet & FlooringGlasgow0141 427 [email protected]

Headlam Scotland North Lanarkshire01698 831 [email protected]

Neil Smith Ltd Glasgow - see Floorwise p16

WalesCarpet & Flooring Bristol0117 316 [email protected]

Roma Flooring Neath - see Floorwise p16



IrelandProvincial Floorcoverings LtdDublin - see Floorwise p16

Provincial Floorcoverings LtdBelfast - see Floorwise p16

Provincial Floorcoverings LtdLimerick - see Floorwise p16

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


Acorn Carpet Accessories 14Bromley, KentTel: 020 8462 0422 Fax: 020 8462 0927

Fitwell Flooring Ltd 18Redruth, CornwallTel: 01209 214344 Fax: 01209 211162

Fitwell Flooring Ltd 17Newton Abbot, DevonTel: 01626 835935 Fax: 01626 834334

Floorwise D & J Ltd 11Southam, WarksTel: 01926 814922 Fax: 01926 817899

Floorwise (North East) Ltd 3Birtley, County DurhamTel: 0191 410 7070 Fax: 0191 410 6116

Lee Floorstok Ltd 6 LiverpoolTel: 0151 708 7420 Fax: 0151 708 7241

Lee Floorstok Ltd 5ManchesterTel: 0161 231 8080 Fax: 0161 231 8787

MCA Floorwise Ltd 4Morecambe, LancashireTel: 01524 33517 Fax: 01524 381852

Mytton Flooring 12Norwich, NorfolkTel: 01603 624387 Fax: 01603 612888

Neil Smith Ltd 1GlasgowTel: 0141 552 1141 Fax: 0141 552 0623

Provincial Floorcoverings Ltd 2 BelfastTel: 028 9075 3202Fax: 028 9075 3901

Provincial Floorcoverings Ltd 7Dublin 10Tel: 00353 (0)1 626 3913Fax: 00353 (0)1 626 3960LoCall: 1850 445 746 (ROI)

Provincial Floorcoverings Ltd 8LimerickTel: 00353 (0)61 227 100Fax: 00353 (0)61 227 000LoCall: 1850 445 745 (ROI)

Roma Flooring 13Neath, West GlamorganTel: 01639 633001 Fax: 01639 646116

RPS Flooring 9Mansfield Woodhouse,NottinghamshireTel: 01623 624198 Fax: 01623 620931

Salesmark 15Lancing, West SussexTel: 01903 750522 Fax: 01903 851111

Wessex Flooring 16Amesbury, WiltshireTel: 01980 625888 Fax: 01980 676969

Woodall Brothers Ltd 10Shrewsbury, ShropshireTel: 01743 441584 Fax: 01743 441629

floorwiseNational Network of Floorwise Distributors

Award-Winning Flooring Accessories

HEAD OFFICEFloorwise Group Limited,

Floorwise House, 22 High Street, Kegworth, Derby DE74 2DA, UK.

Tel: 0044 (0)1509 673974 Fax: 0044 (0)1509 674841

1

23

4

567

98

10

1113

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www.floorwise.co.uk • www.carpetunderlay.netwww.signaturewoodfloors.com • www.siennawoodfloors.com

www.floorwise.co.uk • www.carpetunderlay.netwww.signaturewoodfloors.com • www.siennawoodfloors.com

GRIPPER UNDERLAY PROFILES ADHESIVES & SCREEDS


THE BEST CARPET WOOL

Wool carpets have a historic reputation for quality because as a fibreit is known to withstand pressure and have excellent appearanceretention properties. The best wool for carpet production is ‘strong’wool and this is grown on sheep breeds found in Britain and NewZealand. Most carpets will contain both British Wool and NewZealand Wool because British Wool is more bulky and resilient andoffers texture and unique heathery shades to carpet, whilst NewZealand wool is softer and whiter and particularly good for plain,lighter shaded ranges. Combining the two within a blend for carpetyarn gives manufacturers the perfect qualities 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 its performance.However manufacturers choose to use synthetic fibres within theyarn blend for a number of reasons. These include fibre flexibility,dyeing, heat setting, stain resistance, durability and cost. These woolrich compositions offer industry standard carpets which will performwell 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 lasting durability.The natural crimp of wool offers valuable ‘bounce-back’ so that pilecompression 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 retention andenergy 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 in contractlocations 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 in thehome. It breathes and absorbs humidity in the air, releasing it when theatmosphere 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 Carpetaboutwool.com




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The Leading Country Wide

Carpet & Flooring Suppliers

www.columbiaflooringplc.co.uk

CALL US NOW!!!020 8443 3322

We can supply you with virtually any make of carpet and flooring atGUARANTEED maker’s list price.......

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

TRAFALGAR TRADING ESTATEJEFFREYS ROAD

ENFIELD MIDDLESEXEN3 7TY

Tel: 0208 443 3322Fax: 0208 805 2346Opening Times:

Monday - Friday 8.30am to 5.30pmSaturday 8.30am to 12 noon

ColumbiaFlooring plc

� quality

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The Regency range of stain-resistant carpetsticks all the boxes:

JOHN POWERS M: 07792 477312 SALES MANAGER: BEDS, BERKS, BUCKS, HAMPS, MIDDX,NORTHANTS, OXON, W&S LONDON, SURREY, [email protected]

RICHARD RICHMAN M: 07791 891044 AREA SALES MANAGER: NORFOLK, SUFFOLK, CAMBS,N&E LONDON, ESSEX, KENT, SUSSEX & [email protected]

CHRIS ALLCOCKM: 07872 964685NOTTS, DERBYSHIRE & [email protected]

MIKE SHUTT M: 07970 158594 BIRMINGHAM/ STAFFORDSHIRE,[email protected]

MARTYN REAM: 07968 324598 LEICESTER/[email protected]

Midlands

DES BEST M: 07968 828516 NORTH EAST/EAST [email protected]

RAY ANDREW M: 07973 719801 EAST LANCS/[email protected]

REG SYKES M: 07973 403450SOUTH [email protected]

Yorkshire & North East

BEN THOMASM: 07794 048809 MID & WEST [email protected]

JASON BRIMBLEM: 07794 041266 AVON & [email protected]

TIM BAILEY M: 07794 048414 S.E. WALES & [email protected]

STEWART WAITHMAN M: 07794 048413 DEVON & [email protected]

Wales & South West

Lighten up! Our new illuminated lecterns for

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Preston Sales tel: 01772 696787 fax: 01772 311921Newport Salestel: 01633 283959 fax: 01633 275454London Salestel: 01322 628707 fax: 01322 [email protected]

IAN COLLACOTT M: 07816 217550 MIDDLESEX, W. LONDON, [email protected]

DARREN SPENDIFF M: 07791 890861 [email protected]

RAYMOND SMITH M: 07816 217565 [email protected]

London

JOHN AKIEN M: 07791 891024 S.W LONDON, SURREY (INS. M25)[email protected]

IAN ROBERTSON M: 07816 217563 E & WEST [email protected]

TONY CONWAY M: 07791 891025 BEDS, NORTHANTS, OXON & [email protected]

PETER FLETCHER M: 07816 217561HAMPSHIRE, DORSET & SURREY (OUTSIDE M25)[email protected]

South East

PAUL LOVELL M: 07816 217549 NORFOLK, SUFFOLK & [email protected]

DAREN STEDMAN M: 07816 217548 N, N W & E LONDON, [email protected]

COLIN RICHFORDM: 07970 163372 WEST [email protected]

Scotland

CRAIG MELLING M: 07970 269730CUMBRIA, CHESHIRE & FYLDE [email protected]

ALAN CHEETHAMM: 07966 263571 GREATER [email protected]

BOB CHRISTIE M: 07980 786264 MERSEYSIDE, WIRRAL & N. [email protected]

North West

rpet you can sell with confidence.

ALAN CAIRNIEM: 07976 311434 EAST [email protected]


John Lanham Watts Carpets LtdWool Loft House, Sandbeck Way, Wetherby. LS22 7DN

Email: [email protected] Web: www.jlwcarpets.comTel: 01937 588511 Fax: 01937 588557

An R-Griffith Company

RepresentationYorkshire, Lincolnshire & Nottinghamshire Mr S Fletcher07831 818989

Lancashire, Cheshire,Merseyside, GreaterManchester, Derbyshire and North Wales Mr A Powell07540 112998

West Midlands,Leicestershire, Warwickshire,Hereford &Worcester,Staffordshire, Shropshire andPowys Mr S Campbell07921 439419

Cleveland, Durham, Tyne & Wear,Northumberland & CumbriaMr R Conway07967 721529

South Wales, Avon & Gloucestershire Mr P Thomas07850 934849

Cornwall, Devon, Somerset,Dorset and WiltshireMr A Owen07971 362087

Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex,CambridgeshireMr J Hart 07889 264466

Berkshire, Bedfordshire,Buckinghamshire,Oxfordshire, Hertfordshire& NorthamptonshirePeter Lawrence 07802 422810

Kent, West Sussex, EastSussex, SurreyTony Cook 07860 205377

Contract SalesMr Gary Kendall07802 661944

Northern IrelandMr Matt Mckillen07732 263678

Republic of IrelandMr A M Dunne00 353 872593060

John Lanham Watts Current RangesCastle Howard 4m 10 Row Axminster Richmond Court 4m 10 Row AxminsterKirkham Abbey 4m 9 Row AxminsterBayton House 4m 9 Row AxminsterBedale 4m 8 Row AxminsterDuchy 4m 8 Row AxminsterDuncombe Park 3.66m 9 Row AxminsterRaby Park 3.66m 7 Row AxminsterMoortown 3.66m 8 Row Axminster Rolls OnlyHarrogate Velvet 4m Velvet 100+ ColoursWool Loft Velvet 4m & 5mWool Loft Weave 4m & 5m Chunky Wool LoopWool Loft Designer 4m & 5m Quality 80/20 Twist

Goodacre Current RangesLakeland Tones 3.66m 8.5 Row AxminsterLakeland Charm 3.66m 8.5 Row AxminsterLakeland Heathers 3.66m 8.5 Row AxminsterNaturally Herdwick 3.66m 9 Row AxminsterRoyal Coniston 3.66m 7 Row AxminsterRoyal Cumberland 3.66m 8 Row AxminsterRoyal Kendal 3.66m 9.5 Row Axminster

BESPOKE CARPETSJohn Lanham Watts carpets would be happyto submit a price for any bespoke carpetproject. We can provide a completelybespoke Axminster in terms of any designand any colour from as little as 100sqm. We are also happy to price for anyhand tufted requirement. We can help youwith design work and can prepare Kibbytrials for your consumer’s consideration.

We also have stock of MoortownContract Rated Axminster (picturedabove) for where timing and budgets areconstrained.

Please contact us at [email protected]

REWARD VOUCHERSWe are very happy to announce that we are reviving our popular voucher reward scheme for 6 monthsfrom the 1st March.Every time you sell any JLW or Goodacre Carpet cut you will earn 50p per sqm in a Love2rewardvoucher. These vouchers can be spent at most high street stores and can also be redeemed as M&Svouchers. The retailers include River Island, Toys R Us, Argos, H Samuel, BHS, Iceland, Wilkinson, Matalan,Halfords, Boots and over 70 others. Recipients can also swap their card funds for many more gift cardsand vouchers, such as John Lewis, and M&S at Love2choose.co.uk. See the sales office or your JLW agentfor details. Don’t miss out!

See more on our website at

www.jlwcarpets.com

Sandhurst RangeThe Wilton Sandhurst range is woven with 24 beautifuland modern colours. This plain twist is a great choice forboth 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 6 modernand exclusive colours. Unique contrast pattern provides thisWilton range with a vibrant and strong presence.

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 additional warmth.

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% nylon andis ideal for commercial and heavy domestic use. Itfeatures 8 strong and passionate colours.

Seascape Surf RangeOur Wilton Seascape Surf range features 6 colours and ismade out of 100% New Wool, ideal for commercial aswell as domestic markets.

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.

Tel: +44 (0) 1562 754382Fax: +44 (0) 1562 861 074Sales: [email protected]: [email protected]

www.masterweaver.co.uk

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Wilton Cut Pile • 100% New Wool, 1246 g/m2 • 4m • Very HeavyWear/Medium Commercial

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

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



Wilton Sandhurst

Wilton Contrast

Axminster Contrast

Axminster Marble Planet



Michael YoungerLondon North07881-502506

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

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

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

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

Area Sales Executives

We also stock Ball & Young Underlays,Accessories, Entrance Matting and offer a

Special Order Service on products fromvirtually every flooring manufacturer in

existence! 48 hour Delivery Service on allBalterio Laminate Ranges.

NATURAL EFFECTAnconaCashmere 4&5MCountry Treasure 4&5MChallenger BerberGold FieldsHopscotch 2012Houndstooth Tweed 4&5MIvory Coast 2012Lavenham 4&5MLondon Life 4&5MLong Melford 4&5MNew Sahara 4&5MPromenadeRocca San Salvador 4&5MShetland/Shetland Design 4&5MSilver StateSloane Square 4&5m

SAXONY / SHAG PILEEndeavourGrand SlamHalf CenturyNew CenturySaxon KingSomerset 4&5M‘Stay at Home’ SaxonySweet Seduction 4&5MTennessee

CORD, NEEDLEPUNCH &ENTRANCE MATTINGBedford GelBoleroExplorerHippo MatGalaGrand SquareLineaMagnum MatMagnus MatRackcord 2012Scorpio 2013Supacord

TWISTS - STAIN RESISTAtmosphereBriar TwistClyde 2013Clyde StripesDublin Heather Dublin Twist 2011Fairfield Supreme 4&5MGrandeur 40Heathertwist DesignHeathertwist Supreme 4&5mMoorland TwistPembridge TwistPortmanRhapsodySalt ‘n’ PepaStainfree Rugged Twist 4&5MStain-Tex Twist 4&5MStartwist / Startwist Supreme 4&5M

TWISTS - WOOLCitation TwistDiscovery 4&5MEden Twist 40/50 4&5MIconic Twist 40/50 4&5MInspire Twist 30/40Palace Twist 50/60 4&5MParamount 30/40 4&5MSuper Sixty 4&5MThe Berber Twist Collection 40/50 4&5MUltimate Textures 4&5MUltimate Berber Twist 4&5MUltimate Twist 40/50 4&5MUltimate Luxury 4&5M

VELOUR / VELVETDesigners Dream

WILTONParallel Lines

GRAPHICS / CONTRACT GELSArena Endurance

VINYL / SMOOTH FLOORINGCasino RoyaleChampionEclipse 2012 - Part IEclipse 2012 - Part IIMojo 2012Supergrip IIThunderballValu Grip+

CARPET TILESBedford CordCapital PlusHeuga 727MagnesiumNeutronPositronProtonQuark

Call now to receive a copy of our latest

special price guide!

PALATIAL! That’s our latest masterpiece! Palace Twist is available in a 50oz (Blenheim) and 60oz (Buckingham) qualities and it is an amazingbit of carpet. Our unique double shearing facility means the finish is the finest you have ever seen ,and our hand-picked colours will suit any installation, and any need. Whilst we’ve been bleating onabout the benefits of ‘Perlana’ yarn (and there are many!), there is no substitute for ultimate qualityand this is a truly classic piece of floorcovering!

Hot News from the Top Ram!The talk of 2013 will be carpets that look like wool, butaren’t! There is one problem, until now they simply don’t

look like wool!!!!Only one fibre can emulate the greatness of wool, andthat’s Perlana! Check out our Grandeur 40, bleach

cleanable, solution dyed, stain and soil resistant fibre, thatREALLY looks like wool. I can’t believe I’m saying this!!!!!!


VICTORIACastillionCeltic Heathers Crown TwistEasiCare - Full CollectionGaelic HeathersImperial VelvetNatural Companions (Sisal, Chenille, Ridge)Options 288Regal TwistRustic Jewels

LANOBoleroCampus X-tremeChiselhurstFortunaGrandeurHeather Twist DesignHeather Twist SupremePembridge TwistSentinelStartwist Coll

BALTACasablancaDesert Twist DeluxeFiestaHigh FlyersHighland TweedGala Cord-all options in stockGala EditionGrand SlamMarrakeshMoorland TwistNobilityRosemountSaxon KingShetland Shepherd TwistStainsafe FavouriteSuper WiltaxTechnoTilehurstTwisty

LUSOTUFOCeltic Horizon MandalyPavillion VelvetSafiSintra BoucleTangierTitan & Tital DiagonalTwist BerberUniqueValenciaVenus Saxony

CORMARApolloBerwick 40/50Home Counties 42/50Living NaturalsMalabarOaklands 32Oaklands 42Oaklands 50Primo ChoicePrimo PlusSensationSensation Feeling

BROCKWAYAmore Stripe CollectionAvantiCavendishCresta 40/Cresta 50Jubilee CollectionOrion/Orion MajorPortland

DOMOBriar TwistCabaretFestival TwistHeather TwistPlaygroundSaffron SaxonyScorpio

IVCClassic LimestoneComfylux Extra ExpressionsFantasy - New coloursFusionIsafe ApexIsafe OneMaster GripPlanet Precious MetalsPrestoTile StylesUltimate DesignUltimate OakUltimate MineralsVictoria

ITCBelgraviaConcertoHeritage CollectionPalace

TAPIBELCachetMelodyReedsSysoltex Homested/Aran/Crofter

BEAULIEU carpets Athena DublinDublin HeathersExplorerEnduranceFashion/GalleryGrass CollectionHeavy Tread MarsMotor CarProntoSelectionsSweet HomesYucatanvinyls Celtic Stone - New ColoursChessComfort GripGrandiosoJazzMagnumSherwood Oak Studio laminatesEssentials (previously Casa)Cottage

MOHAWK CARPETSCentury Collection

- Century- Half Century

Freedom GelPresidential Collection

- Independence- Liberty- Freedom (4&5M)- Splendor

Super Freedom

MISCELLANEOUSBEST WOOL CARPETSGlobeBIG VINYLS - FLEXIFLOOROrotex - CeylonOrotex - MatrixCAVALIERCelebrationsCountry CollectionHamlet Parish and VillageC&H Homestyle LVT - planks and tilesLEIGH SPINNERSAtlasVelourTHOMAS WITTERInnovations 50oz & 60ozPARAGONToccarre Carpet Tiles

Solent Wholesale Carpet Company LtdCARPET, FLOORCOVERING & ACCESSORY WHOLESALE DISTRIBUTORSTelephone: 01243 774623 Fax: 01243 533636 E-mail: [email protected] 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 March/April 2013.

Oxford, Berks, Bucks, Beds, Hants, Middlesex & Herts. . . . . Ian Cardrick, [email protected], mobile: 07973 406329Sussex E & W, Surrey, South London & Kent . . . . . . . . . . . . John Robson, [email protected], mobile: 07973 898453Hants, Wilts, Dorset, Somerset, Gloucs, & I.O.W. . . . . . . . . . . . Adam Ayling, [email protected], mobile: 07973 406799Accessary Sales and IT Specialist (All Areas) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Luke Crooks, [email protected], mobile: 07966 664379


STS Goldline Stock CarpetsAbbey Twist 30/40Aston TwistBernwood DesignBernwood TwistBernwood SupremeBernwood Heather SupremeBlenheim Twist 40Blenheim Twist 50Cherwell CordClassic Berber TwistFairfield CreationFairfield SupremeHarrier FeltHarrier Supreme GelOrinoco IIRavensbury Twist 32/40/50ScalaSerenitySupersava EliteSupersava Heathers Supersava StripeValley Berber TwistValley Classic TwistEdel TelenzoHerculesLawrenceLimaPumaBalta Stock CarpetsGala CordStainsafe Shepherd TwistMarrakesh

Lano Stock CarpetsBoleroFairfield CreationFairfield SupremeGrandeur 40Heather Twist DesignHeather Twist SupremePembridge Twist PortmanScalaScala SolutionsStartwistStartwist SupremeCormar Stock CarpetsApolloBerwick 40/50Forest HillsLiving NaturalsMalabar TexturesNatural Berber TwistOaklands 32/42/50Primo ChoicePrimo DelightPrimo PlusPrimo TweedsPrimo UltraSensational OriginalSensation New FeelingTown & CountryBeauleu InternationalDublin EliteDublin HeathersRanger

Fibre BondedEcocord SupacordCarpet Stock TilesAlpha LineAscotBeckenhamCheltenham CollectionClipper IICroydonCroydon ImpactHeuga 727 (Interface)KestonLafitte (Gradus)Latour (Gradus)SaturnSeries Collection (Interface)Stock UnderlaysBlue HeavenCirrusCloud Nine ContractCloud Nine Super ContractCosi 8mm & 10mmCumulus Durafit 500Durafit 650Xpress 8mm+10mmGoldtred CollectionHeatflow CollectionNimbus Willow GreenRoma Silver LiningTredaire EliteTreadmore

NEXT DAY DELIVERY WWW.STSFLOORING.CO.UK NEW PRICE GUIDE APRIL 2013

Did You Know?STS Flooring Distributors Ltd stock a large rangeof carpets and carpet tiles via our 5 depots.

08454 341000 • ORPINGTON • CROYDON • WATFORD • CAMBRIDGE • OXFORD (THAME) • 08454 342000

REGIONAL MANAGER -NORTHERNRachel Sherwood 07801 762724

REGIONAL MANAGER -SOUTHERNDana Baldock 07801 762725

AREA MANAGERS -NORTHERN Dave Lowman 07500 847758North/East London, Beds, Bucks, Herts,Middlesex, Northants, Warwickshire,Wiltshire, Gloucestershire

Phaedra Duncan 07738 329714Berkshire, Oxfordshire

Steve Osman 07919 128401Essex, Cambs, Suffolk, Norfolk

AREA MANAGERS -SOUTHERNMirka Mihulcova 07500 847566South/West London, W Sussex, Berks, Hants, Surrey

Vicky Langley 07962 646847Surrey, W Sussex, Hants, South/WestLondon

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


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]

Yorkshire & North Lincs John AlsopT: 01904 762471 M: 07860 572220E: [email protected]

Devon, Cornwall, Somerset, DorsetBrendan Hart M: 07850 130221E: [email protected]

Lincs, Leics, Northants, Notts, Derbyshire Jim Osborne M: 07738 642934E: [email protected]

Hampshire, Berkshire, Bucks,OxfordshireNiall Martin M: 07866 735772 E: [email protected]

South Wales, Bristol,Gloucestershire, Wiltshire Andrew Jefferies M: 07831 457102E: [email protected]

Lancashire, Cumbria & Isle of ManJohn Rostron M: 07973 733208E: [email protected]

East Anglia, Bedfordshire, Cambs,Essex, Herts, Norfolk, SuffolkJonathan Hart T: 01621 817992 M: 07889 264466 E: [email protected]

West MidlandsPaul BrewerT: 0121 4277117 M: 07798 745181E: [email protected]

Greater Manchester, Cheshire, North Wales Philip HambletonT: 01925 740050 M: 07966 397676E: [email protected]

North EastRebecca Gibbons M: 07970 491215E: [email protected]

ScotlandTim TindalT: 01436 671421 M: 07836 705620E: [email protected]

Channel Islands, Isle of Wight John Eastlake T: 01323 896141 M: 07885 398858E: [email protected]

Northern Ireland Gary O’Boyle M: 07831 220675E: [email protected]

Tel: 01422 374417 or 01422 371226 Fax: 01422 377452 Email: [email protected] Unit B7 Warhurst Road, Lowfields Business Park, Elland, W. Yorkshire HX5 9DF

YOUR HEAD OFFICETEAM CONTACTSOperations Manager: Lesley Inman M: 07703 337989 E: [email protected]

Inevitably, introducing newranges means some old onesmust make way and this yearwe’re saying a fond farewellto an old stalwart of 20 plusyears – Nature Wool.Naturally, we’ve got a greatreplacement in our brand newMayfair textured loop range in100% New Zealand wool. Oursales team will be doing therounds over the comingweeks, updating yourtombolas and sample cards.Also going is Jubilee from themassively successful TubeCollection of stripes – butwe’ve got the bold new Hammersmith instead, plus the two new colourways for Mainline,Piccadilly and Bakerloo and the plain coordinate Centrepoint.

Out with the old, in with the new!

Meet Phil at the Buying GroupNational Flooring Show

Domotex standPHIL HARTLEYJOINS USThis month we welcome a new memberof the team, our new chief executive. PhilHartley will be well known to many ofyou, as he tells us he’s been in the tradesince 1987 – for the past five years withWhitestone Weavers. Says Phil: “I havehad a most enjoyable and successful fewyears at Whitestone and it was a difficultdecision to move on, but the opportunityarose and it felt the right new challengeat the right moment.

“I’ve long been an admirer of Edel Telenzo andappreciated the style of the business and the brand’s reputation. I’m looking forward to bothprotecting and building on that.”

Lesley Inman, our operations manager says: “I’m delighted that Phil is joining us. He is veryknowledgeable about our trade and well respected so I am certain he will be a welcomeaddition to the team.

Phil and the team will be at Cranmore Park on 15 May and are looking forward tomeeting and greeting customers old and new - and sharing with you what’s newand coming through the pipeline.

Mayfair


Tel: +44 (0)845 644 9090local call rate

Fax:+44 (0)845 644 9191

[email protected]

www.hammercarpets.com

Please visit our website atwww.hammercarpets.comfor 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.

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

Mr Martin LeesTel: 07522 740954North Wales, Lancashire,Yorkshire, Tyneside.

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 Keith StevensTel: 07710 160166Midlands & South Wales.

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 5mwidths.

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

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

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

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

Supreme Boucle Our best selling level loop 100% Wool product available in12 up to the minute colours in both 4m and 5m widths.

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

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

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

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

BESPOKE DESIGN CARPET FROM HAMMER CARPETSYou may not have heard of them but Hammer Carpets in Denmark are the largest manufacturer of Colortec bespoke design carpets in the world.Colortec is a state of the art tufting machine that uses computer controlled technology to manufacture any design in a maximum of 8 colours. This tried and tested manufacturing method is up to 10 times faster than Axminster and exactly replicates the appearance, unlike a printed design carpet. If you would like more details of this type of carpet and to find out how competitive and easy to use it can be then please call your Sales Agent or our Sales officewho will be happy to help. Below:Colortec bespoke carpets used in the cabins and suites onboard Cunard’s flagship Queen Mary 2.


RegionalWholesalers’Directory

Your local service guide - see pages 14-16

StocklistsThe

Wholesalers:To list your wholesale business for a nominal monthly charge,

telephone 01482 659396 or email [email protected] and we’ll send you all the details.

1 April 2013

FlooringNews

33from The Stocklists April 2013

Popular residential cushion flooring manufacturer Avenue is set to branchout into the commercial arena with the brand new Titanium XTcollection of semi-commercial surfaces.

Aimed for both residential installations as well as small commercialapplications that require light to general suitability, such as hotel bathrooms,assisted housing facilities and local retail outlets, Titanium XT is ideal forretailers looking to branch out into the contract market. With a total of 21 finishes and available in 2, 3 or 4 metre widths,customers can choose from contemporary stone-effect decors such as theconcrete-look Samson in vivid blue and the mottled Techno, as well asmore traditional wood plank designs such as Carmargue and Noblesse.Titanium XT also presents tile-inspired floors to allow for a trulycomprehensive collection that provides the beauty of residential flooringstyles along with the durability and performance characteristics that areassociated with commercial rated flooring. “Titanium XT combines inviting aesthetics with unbeatable performance andis a very welcome addition to the Avenue Floors product range,” commentsVictoria Hemelaer, product manager, Avenue. “It is ideal for homeownerswith busy, high-traffic homes as it provides never-seen-before resilience andpeace of mind, and is also ideal for commercial locations that want to retaina homely vibe by using flooring styles that are very popular in the residentialmarket. Titanium XT marks Avenue’s first foray into the world of contractflooring, and we hope that retailers will see the collection as an opportunityto not only offer a superior product to customers, but to also branch outinto the wider marketplace.”Titanium XT is rated as suitable for class 32 commercial use and is suppliedwith a 10-year guarantee. With power backing for excellent impactresistance, floors in this collection ensure lasting good looks. T 0800 032 3970 www.avenuefloors.co.uk

Semi-commercial surfaces

Fresh and funkyThe eye-catching Funky Stripes collection of vibrant carpetfrom Balta Broadloom has been updated with three extracontemporary colourways that will liven up homes this spring and beyond.

With its high-impact linear design offering a trendy vibe, FunkyStripes is ideal for shoppers looking to inject a cheerfulatmosphere into their homes. Available in 10 colourways, thecarpet combines thick and thin stripes in a variety of shades for astriking modern feel that encourages coordination with otherfurnishings for a put-together and polished effect.“Funky Stripes is a very popular design, and we have createdthree brand new colour options to make sure retailers canrefresh their existing ranges and ensure they are offering updatedstyles in line with current trends,” comments Geert VandenBossche, marketing director, Balta. “In addition to magenta pinkand tangerine colours, we have also added some appealingmuted, earthy tones that will help to create stylish andsophisticated living rooms while still delivering the pizazz that therange is famous for.”Crafted from 100% StainSafe polypropylene and with five-yearstain and wear warranties, Funky Stripes is bleach-cleanable forcomplete ease of maintenance and to ensure its vivid colourshave long-lasting clarity. A tufted 1/8” cut pile, the carpet comeswith Texflor textile felt backing to ensure extra underfootcomfort and is available in a four-metre width.T +32 56 62 22 11 www.baltagroup.com

News

34 FlooringNewsApril 2013

Dunnottar Castle is the brand new addition to the Crown Floors collection that is presented ona dedicated lectern set to roll out in retail outlets nationwide.

Available in a timeless colour palette of 10 calming shades that include tranquil Blue Willow, greyEnglish Cloud and warm Gold Dust, Dunnottar Castle is sure to have widespread appeal. Craftedfrom practical 100% bleach-cleanable polypropylene, its good looks are easy to maintain to ensurelasting charm. Suitable for many areas of the home, including living rooms, bedrooms and even dining rooms,Dunnottar Castle has a pile weight of 2,990gr/m2 to ensure luxurious softness and comfortunderfoot. This carpet is also protected by 15-year wear and stain warranties, making it ideal forbusy rooms that can be prone to spillages.“Dunnottar Castle combines a beautifully soft texture with outstanding performance benefits, so itis perfect for busy homes,” comments James Caldwell, UK sales coordinator, Crown Floors.“Available on its own dedicated lectern and with large samples measuring 17.5 by 22 inches, it iscertainly a very welcome addition to the collection and is the perfect accompaniment to the existinglarge Crown Floors wall unit but also works very well on its own.”Available in a four-metre width, the Dunnottar Castle lectern compliments current in-store wall stands and is finished in Crown Floors’ famous royalblue colour for complete coordination. The new lectern and the larger wall unit are available to order from Crown Floors agents up and down the country.T 0800 0773301 www.crownfloors.co.uk

Dunnottar delights

Allowing retailers to offer homeowners a great value, convenient solution forpreventing the damage caused by excess moisture and dirt from outside, theAbsorb-A-Mat entrance matting collection from Floorwise will trap dirt andmoisture at the door to ensure lasting protection for residential homes.

Available in a choice of two mat sizes, 40 x 60cm and 50 x 80cm to suit both largeand small entrance areas, Absorb-A-Mat is made from 100% cotton with a closedvinyl backing that prevents water from seeping through. Ideal for heavy trafficdoorway entrances in homes, Absorb-A-Mat will provide ultimate peace of mindagainst premature wear or damage.In a range of six discreet colours, including blue, red and muted brown, grey, beigeand anthracite, Absorb-A-Mat will blend in with existing design schemes to ensurea seamless look.“Absorb-A-Mat is an ideal entrance mat for all commercial projects thanks to its

dirt and moisture trapping capabilities,” comments Richard Bailey, managing director, Floorwise. “With a handy anti-slip backing, it can be leftloose-laid, and is machine washable at 30 degrees centigrade for complete convenience and to ensure lasting performance. It’s time for retailers totake advantage of the unpredictability of the weather and present their customers with an easy take-home solution that will protect their homes.”T 01509 673974 www.floorwise.co.uk

After months of development and fine-tuning, the WoolSafe Organisation is set to launch its unique Stain Guide App. Designed especially forcarpet owners, housekeepers, facilities managers and building maintenance managers, the app is set to become an essential tool across theboard and proves WoolSafe’s commitment to finding new and innovative ways of sharing its knowledge and staying at the leading edge of thecarpet care industry.

Soon available to download from the App Store, the new WoolSafe app will advise on the correct methods of stain removal to make the cleaningprocess easier, more efficient and above all, effective. The user simply chooses from a wide range of common stains, and then follows the step bystep instructions. If the stain is old and set-in or removal is unsuccessful, the app recommends contacting a WoolSafe Approved Service Provider.These are professional carpet cleaning companies from around the world employing Fibre Care Specialists who have undergone WoolSafe training.All WoolSafe Service Providers are handily displayed on a map within the App showing those that are nearest to the user. The App also listsWoolSafe approved consumer products to allow users to quickly identify, locate and purchase the right cleaning solutions for the job.As Steve Bakker, marketing manager of the WoolSafe Organisation, explains, “With easy to follow instructions for the cleanup of some of themost widespread carpet stains I predict that the WoolSafe Stain Guide App will become an invaluable tool for aiding carpet owners and thoseresponsible for carpet care. The App provides a one-stop solution with access to independent advice, approved products suitable for all carpetfibres and WoolSafe approved carpet cleaners you can trust.”T 01943 850 817 www.woolsafe.org

Appy stain removal

News

Dirty business

36 April 2013

News

The brand new Corona carpet from Lano combines a luxuriously soft texture withexceptional performance characteristics to provide retailers with an essentialcarpet style that will have widespread appeal.

Crafted from 100% solution-dyed Lanoset polypropylene, Corona is available in Lano’spopular Easy Care collection and comes in a colour palette of 10 beautiful natural shadesthat have lasting colour clarity. Warm neutrals and earthy beiges such as Rum andBamboo Mat sit alongside deep brown Tulipwood and Leather and contrast with the softcream tones of Pearl and Magnolia for an inviting collection that will harmonise with all interior schemes. With a sumptuous 3/16” shag pile construction and a pile height of 11mm to provide the utmost in underfoot comfort, Corona has a pile weight of1,360g/m2 (40oz/m2) for a truly lavish handle. Combining these sumptuous qualities with incredible durability, Corona is suitable for class 23 heavydomestic use, making it the ideal partner for all areas of the home from bedrooms and living rooms to demanding hallways.“Corona is an all-round carpet style that combines a true feeling of luxury with outstanding practicality,” explains Birger Karlsson, UK & Ireland salesmanager, Lano Carpets. “Homeowners are increasingly looking for products that deliver exceptional value as well as superb performance, and Coronais the perfect solution for retailers looking to fulfil this growing demand. Available in both four and five metre widths to help reduce wastage, and in avery carefully selected muted colour range, this is a high-quality carpet that will become an absolute staple on the shop floor.” T 00800 5266 5266 www.lano.com

Going soft on style

The Quick-Step Academy forExcellence in Flooring haspartnered with the NationalInstitute of Carpet andFloorlayers (NICF) to offer allMaster Installers a year’s freemembership to the industry-wide body.

Formed in 1979, the NICF isactive in promoting theflooring industry and isrecognised by many end usersas a reputable source of highlyexperienced and professionalflooring installers. Quick-StepMaster Installers can nowbenefit from the advantages ofNICF membership and will belisted on the NICF website aswell as this additional accreditation also being recognised on the Quick-Step website. The partnership helps to strengthen the rising status ofQuick-Step Master Installers as among the most professional in theentire flooring industry.“We are delighted to welcome Master Installers to the NICF family,”comments Ian James, president, NICF. “We have been watching closelythe progress made by Quick-Step Academy and believe it to be abenchmark of professionalism and training, sharing much in commonwith our own efforts here at the NICF. We are confident that MasterInstallers will be a positive addition to our activities here at the NICF andlook forward to their contributions.”The NICF will bring Quick-Step Master Installers a dedicated technicaladvice line, a business support helpline in conjunction with CronerConsulting, the use of the widely recognised NICF logo and regularnewsletters, as well as discounts on FITA training courses. “Being a part of the NICF is another great benefit on offer to ourMaster Installers,” enthuses Darren Robinson, training and developmentmanager, Quick-Step Academy. “The industry body is well recognisedby both residential and commercial end users and just helps to reaffirmthat by choosing a Master Installer, they are selecting from among thebest the flooring industry has to offer.”www.quick-step-academy.co.uk

Step ahead for NICF

FlooringNews

The stunning isafe apex safety flooring collection from itec contractfloors is set to transform commercial spaces with a collection ofstunning natural designs, ranging from classic oak through todelicate nuances of contemporary grey woods, a take on bambooand the veins and patina of stone.

As part of a new generation of advanced safety flooring, with 36+low slip potential performance in wet and dry conditions under BS 797-2:2002, isafe apex is ideal for busy offices, schools, colleges,public spaces and residential care locations. In fact, isafe apex can beused anywhere that requires stylish flooring with the health andsafety benefits of slip restraint. Importantly isafe is also easy tomaintain, thanks to Hyperguard+ PUR technology, answering many ofthe criticisms previously laid at the door of safety flooring.“isafe safety flooring has been developed to meet the needs ofcommercial installations and this includes being attractive and easy tolook after,” explains Jason Barrett, national sales manager, iteccontract floors. “With a total of 15 different decors, including the stunning volcanicgrey and seashell beige stone effects, all floors in the collection areavailable in 2 and 4m widths and are suitable for use in Class 34 andClass 43 environments, providing long-term performance in even themost arduous environments. And it’s fast and easy to fit withcompatibility with Invisiweld cold welding for a near invisible join. T 00 32 5665 3211 www.itecfloors.co.uk

Safe and smart

News

Getting in trim

The addition of Premier Trims to the Stairrods portfolio is being well supported by thetrade - Stairrods having been working on this range for almost 3 years and took advicefrom the very start from experienced carpet fitters.

The introduction of the DoubleZ was the first idea that looked obvious, as it cuts downinventory by 50%, used as a Double or a Z bar. The DoubleZ also allows the fitter to'naplock' which is impossible with solid brass trims currently available on the market today.Premier Trims are available in 9 finishes and 4 profiles (DoubleZ, Cover, Single, Square)and 90cm and 270cm lengths. So with this many options it was impossible to ask retailersand contractors or even some wholesalers to take stock. So now Stairrods offer an 'anycombination' option - any length, any colour, any profile with a minimum order of just 3 trims...or less for a small carriage charge and with no split box charges.For wholesalers, Stairrods has introduced a double corrugated container, with a top box of5 compartments for actual stock and the bottom box (making a hexagonal) empty with afurther 5 compartments to allow easy splitting in full labelled packs.T 01207 591176 www.stairrods.co.uk

F. Ball and Co. Ltd., has launched Stopgap 1100 Gypsum, a self-levelling smoothing underlayment designedspecifically for application over calcium sulphate based screeds, such as anhydrite.

The formulation of this new underlayment is calcium sulphate based to ensure compatibility with this type ofsubfloor screeds, and provides a smooth and level surface prior to the installation of new floorcoverings.As well as providing a specialist solution for the levelling of suitable prepared calcium sulphate screeds, Stopgap1100 can also be used over a wide range of other surfaces, including Stopgap waterproof surface membranes,concrete and sand/cement screeds.Stopgap 1100 is the latest addition to F. Ball’s high performance range of Stopgap floor smoothing underlaymentsand is a water-mix smoothing underlayment, with excellent self-levelling properties to help contractors achieve anoptimum finish. It also has a low odour and protein-free formula that allows it to be used in clinical and biologicallysensitive areas such as hospitals.Stopgap 1100 Gypsum is supplied in 22kg bags that will cover of 5.0m2 at a thickness of 2-3mm. At this thicknessthe product will be ready to receive textile floorcoverings after 24 hours and resilient floorcoverings after 48 hours.The application thickness ranges from 2 to 10mm, but where greater depths are required, the product can be filled with Stopgap GradedAggregate and applied at a thickness of up to 50mm.T 01583 361 633 www.f-ball.co.uk

Give it some gypsum


With its sophisticated look and great value, Florence Euro Oak Nature 3 Strip Lacqueredflooring has a top customer rating and is the bestselling engineered flooring style available fromUK Flooring Direct.

Delivering an elegant aesthetic ideal for creating timeless interior schemes, Florence Euro OakNature planks feature an intricate overlapping three-strip pattern that combines with the naturalgrain markings of oak to create depth and interest on the floor. Finished with a subtle satin lacquer,this floor also offers extra protection against dirt for enhanced good looks. Ideal for most areas of the home, including kitchens, living rooms, bedrooms and hallways, thisflooring provides extra stability thanks to its three-ply construction. A real oak surface layer sitsatop a pine core and a spruce base layer to ensure lasting durability that is guaranteed for 25 years.“Cost-effective, visually appealing and crafted from high quality European wood – there is nothingnot to like about these beautiful Florence oak three-strip planks, and this is reflected in the fantastic4 ½ out of 5 rating that our customers have given them,” comments Josh Ashby, product manager,UK Flooring Direct. “Easy to fit for enthusiastic DIYers and capable of withstanding heavy footfall,this flooring is an ideal way for savvy online shoppers to update their homes this spring.”T 0844 327 0000 www.ukflooringdirect.co.uk

Three-strip wonder


Kingsmead CarpetsRelay Park, Relay DriveTamworth, B77 5PR. UK

Tel: +44 1827 [email protected]

The Crown Floors team has expanded with several new sales agentappointments in recent months to ensure that the brand has complete coveragenationwide and continues to deliver exceptional service to existing retailers.

Jackie Jeffrey and Rory Dench will be covering the whole of mainland Scotland,adding Crown Floors to their existing portfolio of both commercial andresidential flooring manufacturers. Mark Viner, who joined the Crown Floors inNovember 2012 and has over 20 years of experience in the industry, is nowresponsible for the East Midlands, and Steve Kotobejko has expanded his areafrom Yorkshire and Humberside to include the North East of England.“It has been a great pleasure to welcome Jackie, Rory and Mark to the Crown

Floors team in recent months, and these recent appointments mark an exciting time for the company,” comments James Caldwell, UK SalesCoordinator, Crown Floors. “Having the new team fully on board has allowed us to expand the Crown Floors offering into all areas of the UK aswell as continue to focus our efforts on developing relationships with existing retailers.”The Crown Floors sales team covers the whole of the UK, with David Bowman in the South East; Brendon Hart the South West; James Thomas inSouth Wales, Wes & Roy Baulk the West Midlands, Mark Viner the East Midlands, A&A North Wales and the North West, Steve Korobejko theNorth East and Jackie Jeffrey and Rory Dench Scotland.T 0800 0773301 www.crownfloors.co.uk


News

Agents of the Crown

Get shirty

Manufacturer of sealants, adhesives and other building chemicals,Bond It has shown a commitment to being an ethical and sociallyresponsible business on a global scale.

The company - which recently announced it is a shirt sponsor ofthe Huddersfield Giants Super League rugby team for the 2013season – has just staged a charity initiative to collect old andunwanted rugby shirts for donation to children in Papua NewGuinea (PNG).David Moore, Managing Director at the business explains: “PapuaNew Guinea is a country where there is extreme poverty andwhere around one third of the population lives on less than $1.25 per day. It’s also a nation that’s obsessed with rugby leagueand that’s given rise to its fair share of world-class, worldrenowned stars. ”One of these legends, Stanley Gene, has teamedup with Bond It to help organise the shirt donation. Named afterits founder, a former PNG international and ex-HuddersfieldGiants player, The Stanley Gene Foundation aims to give youngPapua New Guineans the tools they need to create a betterfuture for themselves. Under the scheme, Bond It offered anyone donating an oldHuddersfield Giants shirt £10 off the price of a new seasonHuddersfield Giants home shirt. Some 500 shirts were traded inunder the amnesty and will now be sent to Papua New Guineafor distribution by the Stanley Gene Foundation.

A family living in one of theworld’s most deprivedcountries will have a home of their own, thanks to one of the UK’sleading suppliers of floorcoverings to the new-build sector.

Designer Contracts has donated money via housing charity Habitat forHumanity – amounting to the average price of all the materials and labourneeded to build a family home in a developing country. Said Peter Kelsey, md at Designer Contracts: “It’s a great opportunity tohelp people help themselves. We wanted to get involved because such asmall amount of money can really make a difference. I want to encouragemore people to get involved and pledge their support.”The charity works in 70 of the world’s most deprived countries, andpartners up with construction companies and suppliers via the HOPEBuilders campaign, which encourages those in the industry to raise as manymultiples of £1,235 as possible – the amount needed to build each home. Said Gina Parle, representative of Habitat for Humanity: “It’s a manageablefigure that allows smaller associations like schools and small businesses tofundraise too, and we hope to encourage as many people as possible to geton board with us. “By helping families to build safe, decent homes we can really help them toescape the poverty cycle irreversibly and forever.”Habitat for Humanity was originally formed in 1976 and since its launch hashelped more than 3 million people in over 70 countries, including the UKand Northern Ireland. Designer Contracts has fully staffed offices and warehousing in 12 regionsacross the UK. As well as flooring, the company supply curtains, blinds,furniture and lighting packs to the new-build industry and has a full show-home interior design service. T 01295 264 240. www.HabitatForHumanity.org.uk

Donating fordevelopment

Glenn HardingController, Flooring One

Voice of the Trade

“ “What’s the biggest advantage of being in a buying group? I think the biggest advantage is the power that comes from‘Strength in Numbers’, the opportunity for an individual andsmaller retail business to get access to services and the buyingpower of a larger association.

Are retailers right to worry about losing their independence?Not at all. Being an independent retailer is their greateststrength, the personal service and flexibility that they can give.Why would we as a buying group want to take that away? Ourrole is to make available to our members a compendium offlooring services from which they can pick and choose thoseelements that work best for their business. We are here to helpthem to be more profitable not damage their greatest asset.

Are you surprised how many retailers are not members? Yes, I do find it surprising that more retailers have not joined abuying group.

Is there a lack of understanding of how buying groups workgenerally in the flooring industry?Yes again. If a specialist flooring independent is to trade athealthy profit margins and compete against the multiples theycan do it far more effectively as part of a buying group than asan individual. As discussed earlier I believe there is a fearamongst many of the retailers that would highly benefit frombeing part of a buying group of losing their independence.

Apart from the price discounts/margin advantages, what do youthink retailers value most about buying groups. Apart from being able to make more profit (that word again!) I believe it would be the knowledge that they have a friend tocall upon to help, advise, challenge and support themthroughout each year. A friend with your best interests at heart!

How important are own-label branding and exclusive ranges toretailers these days?In my experience it has become very important. In the past 2years we have had more members requesting access to theown branding collection than in the previous 12 years that Ihave been at AIS/Flooring One. Usually they have had achallenging period of trade when they have lost orders toother independents working with manufacturer labels at lowermargins or the internet. It is a way of protecting margin!

Do manufacturers regard buying groups as a force for good ora necessary evil?I’d like to think that they see us as a force for good, anothermeans of communication to many independent retailers abouttheir products, displays, marketing activity etc. With many salesforces declining or under pressure to get roll sales all of thebuying groups can get key flooring messages to their manymembers that reps have limited time to deliver.

Can groups get in the way of long-established supplier relationships?I don’t see why they should; after all we all have the sameobjective of selling more carpets or underlay, laminate etc.Certainly at times differences of opinion can arise as to howthat relationship should operate but I would like to think thatbuying groups can add benefit to the supplier and retailer nothinder a long established rapport.

Why is it worth a day away from the business to visit theBuying Groups National Flooring Show?I can understand the pressures and daily demands of running abusiness but it is only one day in the year and I would counterwith ‘can you afford not to’! It is a chance to meet with over60 suppliers covering all aspects of floorcoverings. It is a chanceto get fresh ideas, see new displays, ranges, marketingsuggestions, and exchange notes with colleagues and friends inthe trade. Maybe I have been fortunate but I have always comeback from trade shows that I have visited feeling re-charged,lifted by new thoughts and ideas, ready for the next challenge!

What are likely to be the next developments in the buyinggroup sector?In recent years all of the buying group heads have got a lotcloser through working together at meetings of organisationssuch as the Carpet Foundation, the Campaign for Wool and ofcourse planning the annual BGNFS. It seems natural that thistrend should continue to the benefit all of our members.

“Our role is to make available to ourmembers a compendium of flooringservices from which they can pickand choose those elements that workbest for their business.”



Optimism at Axminster

Axminster is optimistic that its fight for a future will deliver a deal that willsee manufacturing continue at the Devon factory – and they have thankedcustomers for their strong support which they say is critical for survival.

Steve Upperton, Sales Director, told The Stocklists: “There is good cause foroptimism and I am hopeful there will be some deal. We are talking to anumber of interested parties and these are all companies who are interestingin continuing to manufacture carpet.“I think this will happen soon. It needs to happen soon,” he said.“Over the last year, trading has been broadly positive and for most of 2012we were about on target although the final quarter was slow. The qualitymarket has held up OK but the company has faced some financial headwindswhich have led to the difficulties.”“We have been trying to keep everybody in the loop as much as possibleand the mood remains positive. Axminster is still making carpet and we arestill making deliveries.”The company has appealed to retailers to back the future of Axminster. “The management wish to extend their thanks to customers for theiroutstanding loyalty and we have been humbled by the number of calls andletters of support,” said Axminster director Joshua Dutfield.“We would appeal to customers for their continued support during thisuncertain period by asking them to maintain Axminster product displays andcontinuing to place orders in the normal way. We see this as being critical toachieve a positive future.”

Administrators were appointed on March 5 and more than 300 of the 400staff were laid off. Axminster director Joshua Dutfield, commented: “Trading has been difficultand although it saddens the Board to make the decision to enteradministration it could not be avoided. The management have been workingwith key suppliers, creditors and lenders to resolve the Company's financialdifficulties. We are now committed to working with the Administrators toassess all viable options for the future of the business.”

Top UK’s floors distributor Headlam Group posted ahealthy 3.2% rise in pre-tax profits in their year-endfigures to December 2012 – but warned of adisappointing start to 2013.

The Group reported £28.5m pre-tax profits on a turnoverup 2.8% to £586m and increased their dividend toshareholders by 4.9%. The figures were reported as “goodprogress in very challenging market conditions” by thecompany, but they noted that trading challenges were “farmore acute” in continental markets than in the UK.Chief Executive Tony Brewer commented: “The continuedchallenging market conditions combined with unfavourableweather has culminated in a slightly disappointing start to2013. Notwithstanding this, the board are confident thatthe operating strategy and group structure will enable thebusiness to continue to deliver progress in its respectivemarkets over the longer term.”

Headlam’s trading statement revealed some interestingannual statistics about the UK and European business:• 2,855 product launches during the year 2012• 625,114 point of sale items in position• 515,339 rep visits to customers• 3.97m orders – up from 3.88m in 2011• 44,086 active accounts (up from 43,347)• 69% residential sales vs. 31% commercial

The Group highlighted the success of its LifeStyle brandand announced its intention to increase the number of itsservice centres. The impact of the iPad was singled out as acontributor to its performance in both helping sales repsand in improving logistics.At the end of March, Headlam was expected to completethe acquisition of Hall’s Flooring, a well-known distributor inNorth London which has annual turnover of over £8m.

Headlam figures it out


Business News

“The mood remains positive. Axminster is still making carpet

and we are still makingdeliveries,” says Steve Upperton

Workers and residentsof Axminster staged a

‘day of action’ tosupport the company

last month.

The British Wool column


News

Quiet comfort won the dayAnother amazing feature of the carpetswas the way that they transformed thesound in the vast space and gave the 5mhigh ceilinged rooms a different feel as itcushioned echo and provided a calmerenvironment. “Many people who knew thespace as a blank canvas exhibition spacewith hard floorboards and no furnishings,commented on the way that the woolchanged it completely,” said Bridgette Kelly.“Many were absolutely amazed by theeffect it had on making it less noisy and theycommented on the genuine effect of comfortit induced not just underfoot but overall.” It is well known that wool is used toabsorb sound and in fact a vivid colouredroom featured a hard floor with felted 3-Dwall panels and this room too suffered noecho and felt very calm.

The wow factor of woolThousands came through the doors andthe twelve days of Wool attracted all agesand many people returned several times tosee the room sets and also the fashion andcraft rooms. A magazine style app for tablets providedan easy access information tool which will soon be available to the industry andthe public.

Soft style leads the wayNaturally, wool flooring is a key part of theWool House story – 70 per cent of British Woolwill be used in carpet and rugs and so showingthis within the rooms was an important part ofthe event’s Curator Arabella McNie’s brief. Gorgeous plush rugs and chunky loop piles satalongside stunning fabrics but perhaps the highlightwas the amazing 100ft long runner which wascalled ‘United Colours of Carpet’ (below).Created to reflect the importance of wool to thecarpet industry and the carpet industry to wool.Designed as a vividly multi-coloured and pixelatedgeometric design named ‘Infinity’ by Spanishdesigner Cristian Zuzunaga and made by Brintons,it looked hugely impressive running through thecentre of the seventeen room exhibition.

Another stunning carpet was in the Studydesigned by Ashley Hicks who askedAlternative Flooring to make a fabulous red,grey and white geometric design. “It reallylifted the space and gave an indication as tohow pattern on the floor can work in a smallspace,” explained Bridgette Kelly, EventDirector.The fabulous blue runner by Roger Oates(above) saw the ever popular flatweave style ina striking setting, “Runners really showed theirstrength in Wool House and the Roger Oatesrunner lent a certain understated simplicity tothe short hallway whilst being endlesslypractical for footfall,” she said.

The Campaign for Wool hosted its biggest showcase yet in Marchwith a seventeen room event held in the heart of London in thestunning West Wing at Somerset House.

Wool House opened its doors to a keen and enthusiastic audiencewho came to see the way that wool can transform a space andmake it more beautiful and more comfortable. Each room wasdesigned by a leading interior designer, all of which took a differentroom and a different theme. This led to a diverse and evenenchanting journey through the creative potential of wool.

From the moment that visitors stepped through the door, woolwowed. Entering the enormous lobby of the West Wing, theywere treated not just to a visual treat but a highly comfortable one.

Watching people step on to the soft underfoot carpet whichmirrored a black and white tiled hallway, they started to voice thefabulous feel of the wool underfoot. Alternative Flooring providedthe carpet that showed how the right kind of pattern really works.

Each space is designed to reflect a style and the properties of thefibre, so from textured and crunchy through to silky and luxurious,wool shows its true versatility to transform itself and the room.

Wool House entrance lobby with featurecarpet designed by Arabella McNie, made by Alternative Flooring.

The Roger Oates runnershowed the fabulous style

of flatweave.

The United Colours ofCarpet runner designed byZuzunaga, made by Brintons.

Wool House opens its doors and welcomes a flock of thousands

The Stocklists was among the visitors to Wool House - see our special photo report on pages 54-57...


News

Flooring contractors have an important influence in the market wherefloorcoverings are not specified in just under half of all contract situations,delegates at a Carpet Recycling UK seminar heard.

Given that only 56% ofcarpet and 55% of resilientfloorcoverings are specified,flooring contractors providesignificant input in theselection process wherethere is no specification andthey need to be moreinvolved, according toRobert Palmer of PalmerMarket Research. Presenting findings from hisrecent ContractFloorcovering Study atEcobuild 2013, Robert saidthat environmental issuesappear to be becomingmore important. Specifiersnoted that in around 40% ofprojects, environmental

issues were of either the most or second most important consideration, up from22% two years ago. The 2012 study also showed that 85% of all specifiers use flooring contractors asa source of information when choosing a floorcovering.“This suggests that flooring contractors have emerged as ‘trailblazers’ and can playa key role in helping to change attitudes to sustainability in specifying flooring; forexample in using the latest resource-efficient products or carpet tile re-use fornew and refurbishment projects,” he said. “In turn, their guidance may alsopotentially influence positive decisions on end-of-life flooring materials too.”CRUK, the industry-backed association for waste carpet reuse and recycling,attracted more than 120 enquiries from its information-packed seminarprogramme and stand at the London Excel Show in March, which showcasedsustainable practices in waste carpet recycling, new flooring manufacture andspecification.Current developments in carpet recycling and how carpet materials can be usedas a valuable new resource for innovative products and high-end applicationsattracted interest from a broad cross-section of design, specification andconstruction professionals.T 0161 440 8325 www.carpetrecyclinguk.com

Eco contractors

Since its launch in October of 2012, Invisiweld has been rapidly adopted bycontractors and installers looking for a fast, clean and easy way to install Itecresilient flooring. With huge demand for training on cold welding, Itec hasworked with the Contract Flooring Association (CFA) and training body FITAto create a purpose-built course on commercial resilient sheet installationusing the Invisiweld method.

The course provides a unique opportunity for attendees to understand howInvisiweld allows the original design intent of the floor to remain, while providinga more forgiving joining technique. With real and significant time saving benefits,the course also highlights how Invisiweld can provide reduced installation costs and provide a stronger join than with traditional methods.“The Invisiweld training course is a fantastic opportunity to discover the speed and ease of Inivisweld and I would recommend it to anybody lookingto work smarter and faster,” commented Scott Richardson of Richardson Flooring.The training courses took place at the centrally located FITA Training Centre in Loughborough throughout the last half of 2012, with more beingprovided in 2013 along with a steady rollout of demonstrations at trade events across the country. The next course will be run on 25th April at FITALoughborough. T 00 32 5665 3211 www.itecfloors.co.uk

The 57th Kidderminster Carpet Manufacturers NationalGolf Tournament in aid of the Furnishing Industry Trust andMacmillan Cancer Support, kindly sponsored yet again byGeorgian Carpets, takes place at Kidderminster Golf Clubon May 21st and 22nd.

The two day event costs £80 for both days, or £50 for theTuesday and £35 for Wednesday only. Dinner on Tuesdayevening is £30. On both days complimentary coffee and abacon roll will be provided on arrival before play. Day One isa four ball team event and Day Two a two ball team event. FIT, the UK carpet industry’s charity is solely reliant ondonations from companies and individuals and this event is itssecond largest individual fund raising activity. This year’s Chairman, Shaun Lewis of Victoria Carpets, said:”Once again we are indebted to Georgian Carpets for theircontinued generous support and we are tremendouslygrateful to them. In these challenging times it is moreimportant than ever that we remember those less fortunatethan our good selves and I hope the industry will continue tosupport this event which is such a valuable source of incomefor the Furnishing Industry Trust and, of course, MacmillanCancer Support.”

If you are interested in playing, please contact Shaun Lewis atVictoria Carpets.T 01562 749 300

Fit for golf

Invisible earnings



from The Stocklists

Two tactics have emerged. Substantial, coherent display systems that work across a large section of the store to form a defined areaversus the small modular units that retailers can move around forgreatest effect.What works best depends on the store. Some choose to go for thedesigner, interiors look and a number of leading manufacturers haveresponded with the store-within-a-store concept for their brands. POS expert Andrew Fry of T&E Display Systems commented: “There isa lot of choice out there and it is relatively easy for retailers to achieveany flavour of store that they think works for their customers.“Retailers have very different needs. Some prefer the coordinated lookwhile others are more product-led and like a mix to make sure thereappears to be lots of choice from many different brands. To someextent it depends how aggressive you want your sales environment to be,“ he says.“The good thing is that the main players continue to show theircommitment to independent retailers by investing in POS for them,even though the climate is so tough for everyone in the sector,” saysAndrew.Quality has been an issue and retailers are increasingly critical of systemsthat look good at first but are not built to last and show wear within thefirst year or so causing appearance and maintenance issues.New technology continues to gain ground. On-board video – thoughirritating many store owners – is increasingly popular, although the all-to-common dead screens that have not been plugged in have a negativeimpact on the overall store presentation. One of the greatest improvements is in lighting with LED systemsallowing more creative effects. The price of the technology has fallenquickly in the last year and the greater use provides retailers withreliable, safer lighting systems with very low maintenance.“There is a lot of competition for your floor space so you can afford tobe choosy,” says Andrew. “Make sure that your selection reflects yourstyle of business and keep on top of what’s available to make your storelook fresh and modern.”

Manufacturers deploy their forcesin the battle of the High StreetRetail floor space is precious territory in the battle forconsumer spend and in the war of attrition that has become theUK High Street since the recession, manufacturers have beendeploying their forces with great care.

Effective POS is essential ina crowded, competitivemarket so we’ve selectedsome of the best displaysfor retailers to help driveyour business in 2013.

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49April 2013

“There is a lot of choice out there and itis relatively easy for retailers to achieve

any flavour of store that they think worksfor their customers.”


Special feature

Ten tips for top-selling stores

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1. Ensure a large mix of standard and niche productsto reassure consumers they have plenty to choosefrom – even if they ultimately go for something safe.

2. Mix more expensive items with cheaper products sothat the opportunity to trade up is always there –don’t place the high end products on their own orin an increasing price layout where they can bedisregarded by customers.

3. Use your window – too often this is a neglectedarea but a good display reassures consumers thatyou’re a smart retailer.

4. Use your floor! Have the most popular of yourhigher margin products laid in sections of your floor.Consumers like to buy what they can see in a largersample.

5. Keep literature racks full – empty displays look tiredand complacent and consumers like to have materialto take away – and you can clip your business cardto it.

6. Create different areas for different product types sothat consumers are not confused by too much on offerin the same place.

7. Avoid an ‘industrial’ environment – too many storesare sheds with industrial roofs, lighting andventilation on show. Use suspended ceilings, blackpaint and screens to hide the worst parts – thebuying environment should be as domestic aspossible.

8. Use soft furnishing, furniture items and flowersaround the flooring displays to create a homelyenvironment.

9. Avoid empty racks, dead bulbs and dark video screens.

10.Be careful about locating roll stock – very often ithas a prominent position and lures consumers pastthe higher margin material. Consumers not onlyknow it’s cheaper but the large area helps themvisualise it in their own home which is morechallenging with small samples.

Mohawk’s new Ultimate SmartStrand features 16qualities of high-performance and luxurious carpet stylescrafted from SmartStrand fibre collections, offeringretailers an impressive choice of designs on one wall unit.

The new display includes a range of carpets containingthe latest supremely soft incarnation of SmartStrand fibre,SmartStrand Silk. Temptingly touchable, this range offersplush underfoot comfort and has been designed to appealto homeowners who desire carpets that have both innateresilience and a sense of complete luxury.

Also housed on this visually striking unit is Mohawk’scomprehensive Ultimate Collection, comprising 6 qualities;Super Freedom, Freedom, Splendour, Liberty,Independence and Carnival. Combining quality with anarray of colours and carpet widths, this collection aloneprovides the customer with an amazing choice of 174different options to suit any room.

T 01282 606992 www.mohawkinternational.com


Point-of-sale and merchandising

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Cavalier Carpets It’s all about catching the eye!, and few manufacturers pointof sale range does it better than the stunning Cavalier display system.Choose from ‘Slim-line’ wall units, 500mm wide modules with up to twelve differentcarpet cassettes and stylish low voltage lighting. Also in the range are contemporarylecterns and now a matching single ‘design a drum’ tombola where you can chooseany combination of 100 samples from over 300 product options.

T 01254 268000 www.cavaliercarpets.co.uk Crown Dunnottar Castle, the latestaddition to the Crown Floors collection, ispresented on a dedicated lectern,providing retailers and homeowners alikewith a collection of beautiful carpets onone easy to use in-store touch point.

Available in a timeless colour palette of 10calming shades made from practical100% bleach-cleanable polypropylene,Dunnottar Castle is the only collection fromthe Crown Floors to have its own point ofsale, offering retailers the opportunity tomaximise space and offer shop floorprominence to entice consumers.

Available in a four-metre width, theDunnottar Castle lectern complimentscurrent in-store wall stands and finished inCrown Floors’ famous royal blue colour forcomplete coordination. The new lecternand the larger wall unit are available toorder from Crown Floors agents up anddown the country.

T 0800 0773301 www.crownfloors.co.uk


Special feature

Balterio In line with the homey and warm style of the brochure and the website, Balterio offers its distributors a new Shop in the Shopdisplay programme.

Based on the concept 'a true interior experience', exchangeablecommunication panels in the display help to convince the consumer in asimple and clear manner of the advantages of Balterio laminate flooring.Consisting of three modules with a total capacity of 84 SKUs at a width ofno more than 3.5m, the stylish light colour of the new SIS system gives ita very bright look.

T +32 56 62 80 81 www.balterio.com

Regency Carpets are set for a stunning start to the Springbuying season when they unveil their eagerly awaited addition to theCarefree Carpets collection later this month.Neil Valentine of distributors Furlong commented: “People in theindustry have been wondering what we’ve been up to in the last fewmonths. They are about to find out - and I guarantee no-one will be disappointed!”

See next month’s magazine for the great unveiling!T 01772 696787 www.regencycarefree.co.uk

ONDISPLAY2 0 1 3

Whitestone Weavers With several new ranges for 2013,Whitestone Weavers has designed a stand that enables easierbrowsing. Lower than standard POS displays, the Whitestone standfeatures steps up to a lectern; a cassette containing all colourways;and swatches underneath. This means retailers can better supportpurchasing decisions with such an extensive sample set to hand -specially built with women in mind.

“It’s all very well arming your customers with the most imposingstand possible but bulky tall designs aren’t necessarily conducive toconsumer product selection,” said Whitestone Weavers’ ManagingDirector, Steve Byrne.

“We’re confident the revised design showcases our new ranges intheir full glory and look forward to rolling it out over the comingmonths. “New ranges include Durham County Loop (a rustic loop pile)and Durham Velvet (a pure wool product offering an exceptionallyplush palette). The company has also revitalised Weaverstone Twistwith an extended colour bank.”

T 01429 892518 www.whitestone.co.uk


News

The Campaign for Wool working, withleading manufacturers includingBrintons, Ulster Carpets, AlternativeFlooring, Jacaranda Carpets and CrucialTrading, created “Wool House” – theworld’s largest showcase of wool.

The 10-day event attracted interest from topinterior designers, writers, floor specifiers andbuyers - and a visit from Campaign for Woolpatron Prince Charles.

Top interiors stylist Arabella McNie wasappointed as curator: “I was determined toshow wool as a modern fibre across a broadspectrum from ultra-modern and high-tech tohighly luxurious and more traditional.

“There is some amazing flooring and WoolHouse showcased stunning roomsets whichreally show the difference that wool can make,”she said.

The Campaign for Wool, which includes theBritish Wool Marketing Board, the WoolCouncil of New Zealand and other woolorganisations across the world, had workedtirelessly to deliver this spectacular event and itssuccess was a personal triumph for CfW projectdirector Bridgette Kelly.

“Wool House is the most expansive venture theCampaign has seen to date and shows theamazing versatility of the fibre and its potential

The illustrious halls of Somerset House in centralLondon were carpeted in style with a ‘vision ofwool’ during March that was a triumph ofimagination and inspiration.

The wow of wool!

Feature : The Campaign for Wool


An A lternat ive Entrance: Chequers woven carpet designed by Wool House curatorArabella McNie and made by Alternative Flooring for the entrance to Wool House makes anoriginal and striking entrance. Nothing adds drama like a classic monochrome and thetraditional black and white tile is given a modern twist in wool, bringing texture and warmthto the floor.

A thinking man’s carpet in the study (right): Created byinternational designer Ashley Hicks for Alternative Flooring, this geometric'Chainmail' carpet makes a strong flooring statement and showcasescontemporary design at its best. Woven in three colourways this wovencarpet is available in different combinations and in 3.66m wide.

Chequers Nursery (far right) rug in Dotty Lime from AlternativeFlooring’s award-winning Quirky. Simply edged in wool yarn this patternedrug complements the natural Snuggle carpet woven using undyed wool.

Alternative Flooring

to be both stunningly beautiful in use and yet incredibly practicaltoo,” said Bridgette.

“We wanted to make the most of this opportunity within thefabulous location that Somerset House offered to truly shine aspotlight on wool, “ she said.

Highlights included the stunning entrance hall styled like theentrance to a grand country house with a carpet by AlternativeFlooring inspired by a classic marble floor pattern (below right).Alternative were also responsible for carpets and rugs in several ofthe dramatically different room sets.

A unique 100-feet runner by Brintons designed by CristianZuzunga brought alive one of the grand corridors while UlsterCarpets dressed the floor of the smart reception room.

“ere is some amazing flooring and Wool House showcasedstunning roomsets which really showthe difference that wool can make”

55from The Stocklists

Wool House contuned overleaf

April 2013

FlooringNews

News

Spanish designer Cristian Zuzunaga wascommissioned by the Campaign for Wool todesign a runner for the corridor at SomersetHouse (pictured right). The design inspirationfor the runner was to create a showpiece thatdemonstrated the huge range of coloursavailable in plain dye carpet in a pantone or apaint chart style of little squares.

Cristian's use of colour and pixelated designs areboth unique and well renowned, so he was theperfect fit. Brintons were chosen to makeCristians stunning design in to a reality. Cristianvisited the Brintons HQ and manufacturing plantin Kidderminster, Worcestershire to see therunner being produced on their High Definition looms.

This is the third collaboration between Brintons and The Campaign for Wool. In 2011Brintons produced a bespoke runway carpet designed by Erdem that formed part of thegroundbreaking ‘Wool Modern’ exhibition in London and in September last year theyalso provided carpet for the ‘Wool Uncovered’ event at Bryants Park, NYC.

T 0800 505055 www.brintons.net

The Natural Room at Wool House was created byleading interiors designer Josephine Ryan with the briefto reflect a country feel with more naturally colouredand coarser textured materials.

The expertise in natural fibres of Crucial Tradingunderpinned the effect with their 80% wool/20% juteSisool Small Boucle carpet, a range that is available 4mand 5m wide in five colours including wheat, pale greyand rustic brown.

Crucial Trading have established their reputation as themarket leader in stylish naturals including pure wooland a range of plant fibres - coconut husks, plants orgrasses, coir, jute, seagrass and sisal.

The fibres are transformed by Crucial into ‘statement’floorcoverings. The company makes it a priority toremain at the forefront of creative design. Their small,dedicated team of designers and craftspeople arealways experimenting with new materials, interestingtextures and beautiful patterns.

Relaxed, uncomplicated and stylish, Crucial’s calm woolfloorcoverings offer exceptional warmth, feel andfunction. Choose from a sumptuous palette of coloursincluding classic wheat and butterscotch brown,creamy vanilla and deep praline to create a calm andabove all comforting environment to relax in.

T 01562 743 747 www.crucial-trading.com

Brintons

Crucial Trading


Feature : The Campaign for Wool

The splendour of the SomersetHouse showcase was the creation ofcurator Arabella McNie (picturedleft) assisted by Jo Bailey and eventdirector Bridgette Kelly of theCampaign for Wool (right).

The Campaign was launched in2010 by patron Prince Charles tounite the international wool industryto promote real wool as the superiornatural and sustainable fibre for bothfashion and flooring - and to halt thedecline in the global sheeppopulation and wool growers.

Crucial Trading

Wool House showcased the beauty and versatility of Lanevefrom Wools of New Zealand, the only fully traceable carpet

wool, which is going from strength to strength in the marketplace.Ulster’s Open Spaces range, in the Auckland design, was personally chosen by curator Arabella McNie for the Events Rooms (pictured above), thecentrepiece of communal activity in the house. Visitors to the house could see that Auckland was not only made from 100 per cent ethicallyproduced wool but was also fully traceable back to Jeff Farm in the south of New Zealand which comprises 1932 hectares and 14,000 breeding ewes.

Commenting on their inclusion, Steven Parsons said:”Naturally we were delighted that the centrepiece of activity for the Campaign for Wool chosea Laneve product. Laneve marries creativity, texture and colour with environmental issues and the transparent value chain is so topical right now.The wool can be traced back to identifiable farmers at source and, what is more, the farmers concerned adhere to strict codes of practice coveringanimal welfare, land management, farming practices and environmental standards, all of which are independently authenticated.”

Jeremy Wilson, Sales Director of Ulster Carpets said:” By working in partnership with Wools of New Zealand we are able to secure the finest, fitfor purpose wool and ensure that the growers are paid fairly so that they can remain in the wool industry for years to come. Such values andprinciples are dear to Ulster’s heart.

We were delighted to be associated with this project and the promotion of wool, which, we believe, to be a superior, natural fibre and an essentialelement in any high quality carpet.”

T 01943 603888 www.woolsnz.com

Wools of New Zealand

Jacaranda’s Patran Ivory broadloom was chosen byKit Kemp to carpet the bedroom at Wool House.Patran is hand-woven from pure wool at a chunkypile weight of 3000g/m2 (see below). Jacarandastocks Patran in 4 and 5m broadloom and offersPatran as made-to-measure rugs too.

T 01536 762697 www.jacarandacarpets.com

Jacaranda Carpets



Survey

Wholesalers win top marks from retailers for service and their role inthe market appears to have been reinforced in the tough tradingconditions in the sector.

In our survey last month, 86% of respondents said that wholesalersout-performed manufacturers in their delivery service and a third saidthey were easier to deal with than mainstream suppliers. A substantial41% said their service had improved in the last five years.

Almost everyone is using wholesalers – 79% - for part of their businessand 96% said they use more than one. More than 40% said they weremore likely to turn to wholesalers in the future. Vinyl, underlay andaccessories came above carpet and laminate in the productrequirements most commonly sourced from wholesalers.

We suggested that wholesalers were the “champions of choice” in anincreasingly restricted marketplace and 62% of our retailers agreed butas one Surrey business commented: “With less and less independentwholesalers, the value and choice is getting few and far between” – areflection of the business failures in the sector during the recession.

Pricing issues generate a more mixed response as the marginswholesalers need to add to support their business impact retailers atthe sharp end. About a third of our respondents said wholesalerswere less competitive than they were five years ago, while 28% said the opposite.

The most negative comments came from retailers who are unhappythat wholesalers are prepared to service small traders who cancompete “unfairly” with high street outlets. “As a rent and rate payingretailer, we find it disappointing that we lose out through thewholesalers to ‘white van man’ who doesn't need a big margin on theproducts and is happy to work for the fitting and accessories andmaybe a pound on the carpet,” said a North East company.

The sentiment was echoed by several retailers including a West Sussexbusiness which only uses wholesalers for vinyl and said wholesalerswere “carving up the margins of retail shops”. He added: “There aremore than enough carpet companies out there to buy from.”

But a Yorkshire retailer summed up the views of many: “It would be fairto say that we could not survive without Wholesalers. And there is anold saying, ‘people buy off people’, and I think that we are moreinfluenced by the sales representatives that we meet, to an extent,rather than their current portfolio.

“We deal with manufacturers too of course but one put a tombola ofwoven carpets in four years ago, and hasn't been back since, anotherwe have not seen for two years!”

A key offer from wholesalers is ‘own label’ ranges which allow retailersto name their own ‘exclusive’ ranges to avoid price comparison andinternet competition. Only half of our respondents used an own labelapproach and the majority of those who did only stocked three orfour ranges. A Somerset store commented: “We stock as many ownlabel as we possibly can as we dislike being a showroom for theinternet.”

Finally we picked up on a comment about wool products that appearto be struggling to find a strong place in the wholesale market. Asurprisingly high 52% said they were selling less wool than five yearsago. “Most wholesalers don’t seem to be able to stock a good wooltwist at a competitive price,” said a West Country retailer.

“We dislike being ashowroom for the internet”

“We lose out throughthe wholesalers towhite van man”

“Most wholesalersdon’t seem to be

able to stock a goodwool twist”

“The value andchoice is getting fewand far between”

The Stocklists polled 1032 retailers throughout the UK duringMarch 2013. Replies and comments are recorded anonymously.Many thanks to all those who took part.

86% say wholesalers out- perform manufacturers

41% say service continuesto improve

62% say wholesalersincrease market choice

28% say they are morecompetitive

40% are more likely touse wholesalers in future

52% are selling less wool

“We could not survivewithout wholesalers”

Special deliveryWholesalers rate with retailers for service


Back to the floor

Brockway Carpets has added a brand new quality to itsexceptionally popular Opus range of wool rich carpets with itsnew ‘Opus Choice’.

Made from the same signature 80% pure new wool as Opus,‘Opus Choice’ is designed to offer homeowners a new quality,lighter weight option.Available in the same 12-strong colour palette, the rangefeatures a wide selection of plain solid colours from cool ‘PigeonGrey’ to the warm, opulent, ‘Mulberry Crush’, and is available instandard 4m and 5m widths. Ideal for any home décor theme, ‘Opus Choice’ will be ofparticular interest to retailers looking for a quality range tointroduce to budget conscious homeowners.“This range offers a colour palette that works tremendously wellwith both contemporary and classic interior schemes alike,”commented Charles Annable, MD of Brockway Carpets.He said: “Our Opus range boasts timeless beauty and continuesto be a popular choice for the home. By introducing ‘OpusChoice’ we are able to offer our retailers the same signaturequality at a slightly lower price-point, enabling retailers toposition Opus at the more budget conscious homeowner.”Part of the Classic Collection, Opus/Opus Choice is a range oftop quality wool rich carpets featuring 80% pure new wool,10% nylon, and 10% polyester, which together help ensure ahard wearing, long lasting carpet with clearly defined good looks. T 01562 828200 www.brockway.co.uk

Affordable Opus

Thinking of joining a buying group? We can help you decide....


News

Distributors and contractors across the UK are signing up to Back to theFloor, a new collection and recycling scheme for installation off-cuts ofForbo flooring products.

Managed by resource recovery expert Axion Consulting, this innovativescheme collects and reprocesses smooth vinyl, cushioned vinyl, Marmoleumand Flotex installation off-cuts for recycling back into new Forbo products –helping participants to save money and safeguard the environment. Off-cuts are collected in colour-coded polythene bags and bulk bags whichcan be collected from site. In addition, Marmoluem off-cuts can also bedropped off, free of charge, at participating distributors.Among the first distributors to sign up to the scheme are Motherwell-basedHeadlam Scotland, Birch Distribution with three sites in Yorkshire and J DeBruyn in Leyton, East London, providing collection points stretching fromGlasgow to the South West.Chris Pickles, Commercial Director of Headlam Scotland, commented: “Asthe largest distributor in Scotland, we see it not as a ‘green tick’ but as ourduty to the environment and the flooring trade to be pioneers of recyclingin Scotland. We already have working partnerships with several otherrecycling schemes and we are really excited to get on board with ‘Back tothe Floor.”John Cordery, Director of J De Bruyn, one of the largest independentstockists of Forbo products in the UK, was equally positive, saying: “Wethink it’s a great idea and could help flooring contractors to cut disposalcosts, so the more people who come on board with this scheme, the better.”T 0161 355 7618

Read our Buying Groups Factsheet on page 8 for information about the benefits of joining a buying groupand how to choose the right one for you.

from The Stocklists

Flower on FlooringFlower on Flooring

The association has a wide range of courses to suit not onlythose already working in the sector, who need further skills towiden their client base, but also courses for the completebeginner just starting out in the industry.

All courses are listed on the FITA website, along with thesyllabus for each course, making it easy for customers to decidewhich course is most appropriate for them.

New courses for 2013 include: cost effective estimating andplanning (commercial); linoleum installation – basic; linoleuminstallation – intermediate; moisture preventing floor failures;profitable measuring and quoting (domestic).

Floortrain GB provides the Intermediate Level 2 Apprenticeshipin Floorcovering (Textile & Impervious) programme, which hasbeen designed to appeal to employers and to meet their needsin terms of minimising down time and keeping travel costs low.

continued overleaf...

One of the recognised methods of gainingnew business for both individuals andcompanies is to increase the skills base totake on a wider scope of work. This theoryapplies to the flooring industry, which has anumber of dedicated training establishmentsat its disposal, plus additional facilitiesprovided by manufacturers. The UK Flooring Academy, for example, advises that flooringbusinesses have fitting expertise, but not always time to pass iton, and can benefit by engaging a professional instructor. Foryounger employees, apprenticeships may be suitable. For up-skilling or a basic working knowledge, fast-track courses are theanswer, providing hands-on experience without risk to reputationor pocket.

Instructor Kevin Bunting, a graduate of Plymouth University hasworked in fitting, sales and training for 35 years. “I run the UKFlooring Academy in the same way as I ran my carpet shop,service and reliability, never forgetting that trainees are fee payingcustomers who expect and deserve the best training available,”he says. “Our courses are intensive and thorough, focusing onpractical fitting skills. A maximum of four per course and nowritten exams, we just keep going until they get it,” says MrBunting.

The Flooring Industry Training Association (FITA) is anotherrecognised provider, delivering training for both the commercialand domestic flooring markets, with a fully equipped trainingcentre at Loughborough, Leicestershire.

Training for success

UK Flooring Academy Training course

226 apprentices are working with Floortrain GB across the UK

by Dennis Flower

61April 2013


The company states its method is obviously working, as it nowhas 226 flooring apprentices on the programme throughout theUK. Floortrain further explains that it does not offer a traditionalcollege type “day release” course and does not try to cover vastareas of the course in blocks of training that are spread monthsapart.

Floortrain GB further explains that modern technology is utilisedto make courses not only successful in terms of high training andachievement standards, but also in making the course fun, flexible,full of variety and efficient in delivering what employers want.

F Ball and Co states that it continues to underline itslongstanding commitment to promoting technical support andtraining opportunities through a programme of courses held atits purpose-designed training centre in Cheddleton, Staffordshire.

The company believes training is a key area vital to maintainingand raising standards within the industry and dedicates substantialresources to organising courses that allow flooring contractors totake part in free, practical demonstration sessions, led by expertsfrom the company’s technical department.

Groups consisting of no more than 10 people learn aboutsubfloor moisture testing, methods of controlling moisture, floorsmoothing underlayments, priming and adhesive selection, andare also able to gain hands-on experience of applying F Ballproducts from the Stopgap and Styccobond ranges.

Quick-Step Academy training and development manager DarrenRobinson says it is crucial for fitters to remain focused whenchoosing which courses to invest in, to ensure that these willdeliver real business benefit:

“Installers are better off investing in a course that has associatedaccreditation with a reputable flooring manufacturer, as this willadd instant credibility to a business, large or small. Courses suchas the Quick-Step Master Installer programme ensure that fittersmeet the high standards of workmanship that homeownersexpect,” he says.

Quick-Step supports its course with a free two-year installationwarranty, he continues, and will promote the importance of usingmaster installers, part of a dedicated support package thatincludes POS and marketing assistance. Master installers areeligible for a year’s free membership of the National Institute ofCarpet and Floorlayers and can become Trustmark- approved.

“These additional certifications only help to reinforce positiveperception among consumers and ensure that fitters stay aheadof the competition,” Mr Robinson concludes.

Further options are provided by Skills Group, an Ofsted trainingprovider, which offers an NVQ level 2 Diploma in floorcoveringon a national basis. The organisation explains that the programmeconsists of its assessors visiting the learner on site, to conductobservations throughout the programme to build their portfolioof evidence. The learner will also attend its Newton Abbotcentre of flooring excellence for one week, on six occasions, tofulfill the diploma side of their qualification.

The programme runs for 14-17 months for the level 2 qualification. Skills Group states that it recruits trainees,additionally applying for grants available to employers andremains on hand throughout the programme to help businessesgrow through support of apprenticeships, while also offeringyoung people the opportunity to join the flooring profession.

“ese additional certifications only help toreinforce positive perception among consumers andensure that fitters stay ahead of the competition”

Quick-S tep Academ y Train ing Courses keep fitters focussed

Flower on FlooringFlower on Flooring

F B a ll continues to underline its longstandingcom m itm ent to prom oting technical supportand training opportunities


FloorSkills training centre was formed with the aim ofrevolutionising the standard of floor layers in the UK, recognisingthe skills of individuals and allowing them to charge the ratesthey deserve to do the job properly. It believes its new trainingcentre in Earlswood, Solihull can assist in achieving this goal.

FloorSkills states it is currently in the process of having its trainingcourses accredited by Cskills Awards, the awardingorganisation of CITB. This means its candidates will attend andbe tested on courses that meet the high standards of aninternationally recognised awarding organisation, with successfultrainees presented with a certificate jointly branded by FloorSkillsand Cskills Awards.

FloorSkills is also running an apprenticeship scheme spread over30 days, providing instruction in preparing sub floors andinstalling carpets, commercial vinyl and LVT designer floorcoverings.

FloorSkills host the BWFA (British Wood Flooring Association)training schemes which include the first official woodapprenticeship in the UK as well as customised training for allaspects of wood flooring installation.

For more information:F Ball 01538 361633 www.f.ball.co.ukFITA 0115 950 6836 www.fita.co.ukFloorskills 01564 703900 www.floorskills.co.ukFloortrain 01302 249555 www.floortrain.co.uk

Quick-Step www.quick-step-academy.co.ukSkills Group 01845 3194343 www.skillsgroupuk.co.ukUK Flooring Academy 01283 711428 www.uk-flooring-academy.co.uk

FloorSkills’ new training centre in Solihull aimsto set new standards in training.

by Dennis Flower

“Modern technology is utilised tomake courses not only successfulin terms of high training and

achievement standards, but alsoin making the course fun,flexible, full of variety andefficient in delivering what

employers want.”

FloorSkills’ are having their courses accreditedto internationally recognised standards


You can create a carpet websitefor your business in 5 minutes.

Fill out a form for five minutes and we’ll have a good-lookingflooring 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 hoursor where they can park! Or they’re just checking if you look professional.The Floorsites package from The Stocklists offers:� 7 ready-made pages of flooring industry content covering the key sectors

of carpets, vinyls, laminates, etc.� Instant online editing – if you can type, you can customise these pages

yourself anytime to add latest offers and news… or leave them as they are– we put all your contact information in there anyhow.

� Choose photos from our library to make your site unique – or 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 oraddress.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 576101.

NO OBLIGATION ‘TEST DRIVE’...We set up your site free-of-charge for a month. If you

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.


Advertise here!Call Diane Martin on 01482 659396

SITUATIONS VACANT

StocklistsThe

Classified


Due to the impending retirement of Mr. Richard Chuter, our Agent of 28 years standing, Adam Carpets are seekingto recruit a Sales Representative for the North West area

of England.

The role is likely to suit either an experienced SalesRepresentative from within the flooring industry or a dynamic

Sales Person from within the flooring retail sector.

Ideally, applicants should reside in the territory and be able todemonstrate an excellent knowledge of customer relationshipmanagement together with practical experience of updating

point of sale.

A competitive remuneration package including a companypension will be offered to the right candidate.

In the first instance please forward your CV [email protected] or in writing to

Eamonn Prescott, Sales Director Adam Carpets Ltd

Greenhill Works, Birmingham Road, Kidderminster, DY10 2SH.Tel 01562 822247

SALES REPRESENTATIVENorth West England, including Cheshire,Manchester and parts of Lancashire.

SALE

S AG

ENT South & Central Wales

An established & well respected UK carpetmanufacturer is looking for an experienced & successful sales agent to develop business inthe South & Central Wales territory. Point of sale support and existing contact detailswill be provided - a solid basis on which todevelop further sales successPlease email CV with details of relevantexperience and current agency commitmentsto [email protected] or write to: SitsVac0413, The Stocklists, 219 West Ella Road, West Ella, Hull HU10 7SD.

(An Ulster Group Company) is a leading manufacturer and supplier of specialist carpets for

successful organisation that has built its reputation on the

Pending the imminent retirement of a long established area sales manager we are seeking an individual who is capable of not only maintaining an established client portfolio but

For more information about the role or to apply for the position, please contact Andy Bullock on:

The ideal candidate will have a previous track record of sales success within the interior products and decorative

contractor sector across residential care, social housing,

have disciplined selling skills and a strategic approach to

Strategic account management New business development Key client responsibility and oversight

FOXISuper PlusThe Rug Tamer! Keeps Rugs In Their Place

COMBINATION UNDERLAYSNEEDLEFELT UNDERLAYS

For orders and further information, please ringP&R Ratcliffe (Underlays) Ltd.Burnley, Lancashire BB10 3BH

Tel: 01282 421026, Fax: 01282 412321www.foxirugtamer.co.uk

UNDER RUGS

FOR SALE

SITUATIONS VACANT

StocklistsThe

Classified

AGENTS REQUIREDSelected Rug & Matting Ltd are lookingfor successful agents to sell our popular & repeating ranges of modern rugs to

carpet & furniture outlets.Excellent support & commission given bylong established importers with large

stocks & prompt service.

Areas available:-South West, South Wales, East Anglia/Essex, Kent/

South London/Surrey & Scotland

Please write OR email to :-Simon Eisenberg, Managing Director. Selected Rug & Matting Ltd.74 Long Lane, London SE1 4AU. Email: [email protected]

AGENTS REQUIRED Simply Rugs have been supplying Carpetand Furniture Retailers throughout the UKfor 20 years. We require successful agentsto promote our HEATSET and WOOL RUGSin the following areas. Central Southern/South West England, East/West Midlands,Wales and the North East. We offer highrates of commission.For more info, please contact Nick Clinch on 01264 352218 or [email protected]


TWO AREA SALES MANAGERSVictoria Carpets Limited are looking for two energetic,enthusiastic, experiences sales people to join their team.

We require someone to cover the following areas

VACANCY 1 - NORTH WEST incorporating Cumbria, Lancashire,The Wirral and parts of Cheshire and North Wales

VACANCY 2 - OXFORDSHIRE, BUCKINGHAMSHIRE, BEDFORDSHIRE,HERTFORDSHIRE and BERKSHIRE (Due to an impending Retirement)

Both of these positions require the successful applicants to undertakethe following key functions within their roles:

I. Development and implementation of the Regional workload inagreement with the National Sales Manager.

II. Business Development & Review with retailers to achieve Regional and National sales objectives (pricing, business reviews,new accounts).

III. Compliance with all Company procedures and policies.

Benefits of the role include a good basic salary, excellent bonusprospects, Company car, mobile phone and expenses.

If you believe you have enthusiasm and determination to succeed in thisposition, please forward your applications in writing, enclosing a CV andcurrent salary to Melissa Hagan, HR Officer, Victoria Carpets Limited,Worcester Road, Kidderminster, Worcestershire. DY10 1JR.Closing date for applications isthe 27th April 2013.

We are market leading suppliers of floor covering, curtains, furniturepacks and lighting to the House Building Industry.

www.designercontracts.com Email: [email protected]

Designer Contracts

Interested?Email letter and CV to [email protected]

Due to our significant and continued expansionwe are looking for the following positions:

Planner/Estimators 1 based in Corby and 1 in Biggin Hill Salary £18,000 pa - depending on experience

We require two experienced and intelligent Planner/Estimatorswho can plan from measurements and drawings, estimate,quantify and produce quotations. You must have good productknowledge, an exceptional eye for detail, be organised and able touse Excel spreadsheets. Excellent communication skills are alsoessential. Although mostly office based, there may, on occasions,be a need to visit site to measure or deal with service issues andtherefore a full driving licence is required.

Benefits include 23 days holiday + 8 bank holidays,health care, life cover and staff discount, togetherwith a contributory pension scheme.

Documents

The Stocklists - April 2013