Higgins have left the industry to fend for itself. And vote to make your opinion heard.
Mike Hardiman has become the latest industry great to join the heavenly sales conference. In a career spanning almost five decades, he played a vital role in defending carpets against health claims when at the Carpet Foundation and, among many other things, was involved in creating those iconic Brintons’ campaigns which made consumers look again at flooring. Our thoughts are with his family and friends, and those of Alan Higgins, who has also died.
After what seems a very quick gap, exhibitions are firmly back in the diary, as TFSS, INDX Beds and Salone/Fuorisalone take place this month, rapidly followed by Proposte, Long Point, INDX National Flooring Show (for which the show guide is in this issue) and Flanders Flooring Days in May. Hopefully I’ll see you at some of those.
This month is the first chance for you to tell us who you think the best retailers, manufacturers and suppliers are in the interiors industry in the Interiors Monthly Awards 2026. Across furniture, flooring and support services we want to reward who you feel is the one company per sector that you couldn’t run your business without. As ever, the criteria – for example, profitability, consumer attraction, service levels, support, or an amazing sales rep or store owner – is up to you.
I’ve already been asked ‘how do I enter my business?’ and it’s simple: you cannot. In all award categories, it is others who vote for you. If you are a retailer, suppliers will be the ones voting for you; if you are a manufacturer, it’ll be the retailers expressing their support. You cannot vote for yourself (or get your marketing agency to do so, if you have one). As with any election, you’ll need a message to convince others to cast their votes for you.
Once again, one of you will have a Fortnum & Mason hamper on its way to you as our way of saying thank you for voting, so visit interiorsmonthly.co.uk/voting-form today and make your opinion heard.
Condor Carpets’ ultra soft Inspire is joined by the new Premium cut pile tile collection Visit: condor-group.eu/en/carpets
INTERIORS MONTHLY APRIL 2026
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
4 Another administration for Westbridge
6 Barclay vows to ‘listen and learn’
10 Mike Hardiman and Alan Higgins die
FEATURES
12 Interiors Monthly Awards 2026
Decide who the winners will be
14 New products
18 S ervice
All in a day ’s work
20 Sustainabilit y Secur ing supplies
22 Retail
What south-east of England shoppers are buying 30 Beds and b edroom
Some redundancies have been implemented at upholstery producer Westbridge, but the majority of staff have been retained after it went into administration for the second time in just over a year.
Just days after securing protection from creditors by filing notices of intent to appoint administrators, Westbridge Furniture and sister company Belfield Leisure named Interpath as administrator for both companies, with Chris Pole and Will Wright as joint administrators.
‘It's been a challenging time for furniture manufacturers and retailers. Following a spike in demand during Covid-19, a period of falling sales, high interest rates and inflation have piled on the pressure for companies up and down the supply chain,’ says Pole.
‘While both Westbridge and Belfield Leisure had made positive progress on their respective turnaround journeys, both companies required further injections of capital. Unfortunately, and despite the best efforts of management
to secure funding, this has not been possible, which has sadly resulted in the companies going into administration.
‘As we start to explore options for both businesses, our immediate intention is to trade the Belfield Leisure business as a going concern, as well as maintaining operations at Westbridge for a period as we fulfil work already in progress.
‘We'd invite any parties who may be interested in acquiring the businesses and their assets to contact us at the earliest opportunity.’
The companies were formed in February 2025 when Blandford Capital bought the business and assets of Westbridge Furniture Designs and Belfield Furnishings along with The Belfield Group’s other subsidiaries, including Tetrad, in a pre-pack deal.
Blinds2Go looks to move away from price-led players
Blinds2Go is looking to move away from the promotional and price-led approach seen in the sector.
The retailer has launched its largest consumer marketing campaign, which includes TV, after creating a new brand identity that
marks its 25th anniversary.
It has adopted the concept of ‘play with light’, which runs through the brand’s photography and content to the customer experience and product design, spotlighting the benefits of blinds and
curtains and encouraging shoppers to transform their homes.
Tetrad and Clinchplain Foam and Fibre are not in administration and continue to trade as normal. Ikea’s
‘Our new branding reflects a huge shift for Blinds2Go as we’re helping our customers curate their lifestyle. We want to help them to create spaces they want to spend time in, buying window coverings for their functional aspect and also because they shape their mood and comfort, while setting a scene through light control,’ says Gabriel Pires, Blinds2Go ceo.
The brand revamp moves away from the legacy purple and grey colour scheme and is based on: it must be bright, light at heart and warm, including a simplified single-tone logo, a softer typeface and a warmer colour palette built around earthy, neutral colours.
Ikea has continued its expansion policy of moving nearer shoppers with its first UK store opening of 2026: a ‘plan and order’ store on the Kingsway West retail park, Dundee.
The store is focused on kitchen, bedroom and living room planning, and stocks 250 home accessories and furniture. Customers can also order the full Ikea range.
The unit has 10 kitchens on display alongside eight PAX wardrobes, and a planning area.
The chain plans to open a plan and order store in Aberdeen, replacing a former branch in the city. Last year Ikea opened seven UK stores.
The Dundee store
Back in the family
High-end living, dining and kitchen retailer and manufacturer Cesar has returned to 100% family ownership as it looks to boost its international presence under a new management team. Following the death of the company’s longstanding partner Michele Dalla Libera, the founding Cester family has seen its full ownership restored.
Maurizio Vianello has been recruited as general manager, reporting to Gina Cester, Cesar ceo.
2025 was a year of stability for the company in the face of market difficulties, with steady sales in north America and Europe outside Italy. It has strengthened its presence in the US, France, Spain and South Korea and seen furniture sales come to account for 20% of sales.
It has five flagship stores, 14 monobrand showrooms and a distribution network across more than 40 countries in Europe, the Americas and Asia.
Sofas & Stuff has resumed its expansion, opening its 26th store in the
It
Barclay vows to ‘listen and learn’
Rob Barclay, Headlam’s incoming ceo, says he will ‘listen and learn’ as he looks to turn around the group’s fortunes. He joined the flooring distributor on 9 March before becoming ceo on 27 April, and is spending time with customers and the sales team. Stephen Bird, Headlam interim executive chairman, will return to his role as non-executive chairman.
‘My priority will be to listen and learn, be clear on what drives our success, and work with the team to deliver this,’ says Barclay.
The groups says Barclay brings ‘deep understanding of specialist distribution, complex supply chains and customer dynamics’, combined with ‘more than 25 years of leadership track record in building products manufacturing and distribution businesses, including relevant flooring experience, as well as leading transformation programmes and delivering operational excellence.’
Barclay has held roles at SIG and National Timber Group and was most recently ceo at electrical, data, control, and specialist cable supplier Batt Cables for 13 months, before the Kent-headquartered company went into administration in January. It operated eight sites in the UK and seven in continental Europe, employing 334 people. Administrators said it had ‘encountered ongoing liquidity difficulties due to challenging market conditions in recent years.’
He was also a non-executive director at Speedy Hire.
‘Under Rob's leadership, we will seek to drive through the strategic focus and organisational enhancements required for the next phase of our development,’ says Bird.
Richard Jones has also joined as interim cfo. He had been interim cfo at HSS Hire Group since 2024.
The scale of Headlam’s next phase was shown in its 2025 results: EBITDA losses rose from £5m to £12.5m; sales fell by 4.6% to £498.7m in 2025, partly through the turnaround plan, and pre-tax losses grew from £38.1m to £69.6m.
‘The independent retailers and contractors we serve are resilient. The market will recover and when it does, we will be well placed to support them – initially smaller, but stronger, more focused and more profitable.
‘I would like to thank all employees for their commitment and in ensuring this is a business model that can weather market cycles and deliver consistent returns,’ says Bird.
Cesar is back under Cester control
Back on the expansion trail…
Upholstery chain
heart of Islington, north London at 296 Upper Street.
opened its 25th branch – on Hill Street, Richmond, west London – in August. Pictured is a painting of the Islington store by Lily Whitehouse.
Headlam: focus required
Truth bombs, bubbles and brunch
WiFN returns to the Manchester Furniture Show focusing on what comes next
The Women in Furniture Network will return to Manchester Furniture Show 2026 (5-6 July) with another powerful panel, Shared Growth in Action and the return of its Bubbles and Brunch format.
Building on the momentum from January Furniture Show, this next chapter shifts the conversation from inspiration to action. While previous discussions explored personal journeys, mindset and allyship, the Manchester Central panel will focus on what comes next: how women, and their allies, can actively grow together across the furniture industry.
Following the January session, attendees described the experience as both inspiring and eye-opening. ‘It was a pleasure to step outside my comfort zone and learn from such inspiring experiences,’ says Natasha Shillingford, La-Z-Boy International brand marketing director. ‘The panel delivered truth bombs on everything from embracing failure to backing yourself sooner, reminding us why these shared spaces matter,’ says Charnelle Merritt, Build and Bloom Management founder.
Uniting voices from across the sector and across career stages, the panel will continue its mission to connect, inspire and champion women in the furniture and interiors industry. Expect practical, real-world insight on building confidence in a traditionally male-dominated sector, alongside honest discussion around mentoring, sponsorship and the networks that drive long-term success.
The brunch forms part of the wider Manchester Furniture Show. The show brings together more than 4,000 retail buyers and 120 brands for two days of sourcing, networking and business.
Visit: thefurnitureshows.com
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WiFN at MFS in 2025
Stand
ULTIMUS
Heritage Oak - Sandringham, Laying Pattern - Chevron.
Mike Hardiman dies, aged 79
Mike Hardiman, former Carpet Foundation chief executive and Brintons executive responsible for one of the industry’s most iconic marketing campaigns, died on 6 March. He had suffered from dementia.
Hardiman began his career in flooring as a trainee manager at Brintons in 1964 after completing an HND at Kidderminster College when he was 18. ‘At that time there were 12,000 people working in carpets in Kidderminster. It was the capital of carpet in the world,’ he later recalled.
In 1993 he was in charge of the company’s marketing and instrumental in the iconic Vivienne Westwood advertising campaign featuring her costumes. ‘I was negotiating one minute and next thing I was on a shoot with David Bailey and Westwood. The campaign created a massive national stir.’ The campaign featured some of the best-known carpet images of a generation, and more followed in 1995 and 1996.
After 35 years at the manufacturer, Hardiman helped launch the CF in 1999, becoming chief executive, before retiring in 2011.
He made regular media appearances during his years in the role, promoting carpet and refuting claims against carpets as part of an ‘underhand, dirty tricks campaign’.
In 2008 he was lukewarm on the Fun on the Floor consumer marketing campaign: ‘Most people know about carpets: telling them they’re soft and fluffy and you can roll around on them with no clothes on has no real effect.’
‘I think after 47 years I have done my bit,’ the West Bromwich Albion and international rugby fan said when he retired from the CF. ‘I’ve had a very interesting life and met lots of interesting people.’
He is survived by his wife Sonia, children Caroline and Jonathan, and grandchildren.
Alan Higgins people
Mia Dalgas has joined carpet manufacturer Ege from Flos B&B Italia subsidiary Audo Copenhagen as group chief brand and marketing officer as it looks to develop its global ambitions. Dan Nielsen has joined from &Tradition as group chief product and development officer.
Cathie Clarke, UK Sustainable Flooring Alliance ceo; Dids MacDonald, ACID chair and founder, and Helen Dickinson, BRC ceo feature in the fourth Women in Trade Associations Powerlist of 100 women.
Tributes have been paid to Alan Higgins, former Morris Furniture UK sales director, by joint-mds Robert Morris and George McGraw.
‘I knew Alan for 45 years, 30 of which I worked with him at Morris Furniture Company, firstly as sales agent for south-west England where he won the company’s National Salesman of the Year award twice. He was soon promoted to national sales manager and then UK sales director.
‘It is no coincidence that the company expanded during Alan’s time. He was a very hardworking colleague who supported our customers and sales team and will be greatly missed,’ says McGraw.
‘Alan was a great favourite of many retailers throughout the UK and in particular in the south-west, and he will be greatly missed by all,’ says Morris.
He is survived by his wife Pam, children Daniel and Nicola, and grandchildren.
Land of Beds scoops family business award
Land of Beds has been hailed as Cheshire’s Outstanding Family Business of the Year.
The retailer won the High Sheriff’s Award for Enterprise, which recognises familyled businesses that have delivered real economic and community impact.
‘This one really means a lot to us,’ says Mike Murray, Land of Beds md. ‘My grandfather started it in 1974, my dad grew it, and now I get to carry that forward. Being recognised right here in Cheshire, the place we’ve
The High Sheriff of Cheshire presented the award
always called home, is brilliant. I’m proud of the whole team.’
The business employs more than 40 people across its two stores and its online operations, which accounts for 60% of sales.
It supports local charities including Claire House Hospice, local schools, grassroot sports teams and bed poverty initiatives, and has partnered with a local GP and a national sleep physiologist on research into menopause and sleep health. The business also sponsored 12 marathons through the Actuate Global challenge, helping to raise £50,000 for brain tumour and motor neurone disease charities, causes that have directly touched local families.
Time
called
Manchester furniture and flooring retailer Stocktons has called time on its city centre store. The site of the Great Ancoats Street store is part of a major regeneration project.
‘My father started the business back in 1953 and it has been a privilege for the Stockton family to serve the people of Manchester over three generations,’ says Breck Stockton, Stocktons md.
‘We will bow out by giving customers one final chance to grab an unrepeatable deal,’ he said, before the store’s closing-down sale.
years of
From 1956 to 2026, Cormar continues to be a Great British success story.
Thank you to all customers, suppliers and employees that have contributed to our journey.
You decide
Vote for the Interiors Monthly Awards 2026 winners
In the Interiors Monthly Awards 2026, we want you to tell us which retailers, manufacturers and suppliers are the best in the industry. As ever, the criteria are entirely up to you.
To vote, visit interiorsmonthly.co.uk/voting-form and fill in the form: it only takes a few minutes. As a thank you, one of you will receive a Fortnum & Mason hamper, so include your
HERE IS WHO YOU VOTED FOR IN 2025
Best Furniture Retailer (1-3 stores): Arighi Bianchi
Best Flooring Retailer (1-3 stores): Knot & Grain
Best Furniture Retailer (4+ stores): Dunelm
Best Flooring Retailer (4+ stores): Flooring Superstore
Best Online Retailer: Sofa Club
Best UK Furniture Manufacturer: Whitemeadow
Best UK Flooring Manufacturer: Abingdon Flooring
Best Overseas Furniture Manufacturer: Wiemann
Best Overseas Flooring Manufacturer: Condor Carpets
Best Furniture Buying Group: AIS
Best Flooring Buying Group: ACG
Best Bed Manufacturer (Upmarket): Harrison Spinks
Best Bed Manufacturer (Mid-market): Highgrove Beds
Best Bed Manufacturer (Value): Shire Beds
Best Bed in a Box Manufacturer: Emma – The Sleep Company
Best Bed Manufacturer (Adjustable): Jay-Be
Best Sofa Bed Supplier: Kyoto
Best UK Carpet Manufacturer: Cormar Carpet Company
Best Rug Supplier: Think Rugs
Best Bedroom Manufacturer: Rauch
Best Laminate Manufacturer: Egger
Best Dining Room Supplier: Devonshire Living
Best Solid/Engineered Wood Flooring Supplier:
Furlong Flooring
Best Living Room Supplier: Furniture To Go
Best Underlay Manufacturer: Carpenter
Best Fabric Upholstery Manufacturer (Luxury): Tetrad
Best Fabric Upholstery Manufacturer: Lebus Upholstery
Best Vinyl Manufacturer: LeoLine
Best Leather Upholstery Manufacturer (Luxury): Stressless
Best Leather Upholstery Manufacturer: La-Z-Boy UK
Best LVT Manufacturer: Moduleo
Best Recliner Manufacturer: himolla
Best Accessory Supplier: Gallery Direct
details: without them your vote will not count. Voting is by the entry form only. Votes for your own company will be disregarded. Only those directly employed in the interiors industry may vote: this excludes but is not limited to, marketing, PR and advertising companies. The editor’s decision is final.
Visit: interiorsmonthly.co.uk/voting-form
Best Flooring Accessory Supplier: Floorwise
Best Outdoor Furniture Supplier: Maze
Best Outdoor Flooring Supplier: Louis De Poortere
Best Rigid Floor Manufacturer: Coretec
Best Mattress Protection Provider: Purecare UK
Best Furniture Wholesaler: Julian Bowen
Best Flooring Wholesaler: Kellars
Best Customer Service (Furniture): Julian Bowen
Best Customer Service (Flooring):
Victoria Carpets & Design Floors
Best Business Support (Furniture): BFA
Best Business Support (Flooring): SMG
Best Marketing Support (Furniture): NBF
Best Marketing Support (Flooring): Metro
Best Trade Association: BFA
Best Retail Software Supplier (Furniture): Ordorite
Best Retail Software Supplier (Flooring): Company Dynamics
Best CGI Software Supplier: Orbital Vision
Best Retail Display/POS (Flooring): Lifestyle Floors
Best Furniture Exhibition (UK): Bed Show
Best Flooring Exhibition (UK): The Flooring Show
Best Furniture Exhibition (Overseas): CIFF (Guangzhou)
Best Flooring Exhibition (Overseas): Flanders Flooring Days
Best for Sustainability (Furniture): Hypnos
Best For Sustainability (Flooring): Ball & Young
Best Furniture Component Supplier: Leggett & Platt
Best Flooring Component Supplier: F Ball
Best Warranty Provider: Castelan
Best Product Protection (Furniture): Guardsman
Best Product Protection (Flooring): Stroolmount
Best Website: Invictus
Best Retail Finance Provider: V12 Retail Finance
Best Product Testing Provider: SATRA
Best for Innovation (Flooring): Tarkett
Best for Innovation (Furniture): Spinks
Top of their class
Here are some of the 2025 winners. Who will you crown as the best in 2026?
TETRAD
THINK RUGS
HARRISON LA-Z-BOY
SOFA CLUB ACG
Visit: leoline.co.uk 5 4 3
1 Linea Light Group’s Delfi is available in three versions: suspension, ceiling and floor lamp. Its signature element is the painted metal lampshade with a textured finish, available in a palette of elegant, contemporary colours: white, black, peach, petrol and deep blue. Visit: linealight.com
2 Louis De Poortere has introduced a new organic shape, Peanut, available in 170cm x 235cm and 235cm x 340cm sizes on selected styles. Introducing a playful yet refined form, its gently curving lines add warmth and a sense of ease to interiors. Peanut joins the
circular shape introduced in 2024. Visit: louisdepoortere.com
3 Quick-Step’s Impressive Designs laminate floor is a herringbone plank guaranteed to be 100% waterproof and creak-free – democratising herringbone to make it suitable for all rooms – and using Unizip for fast installation. Visit: quick-step.co.uk
4 Living Divani has updated its marketing materials for its outdoor collection, portraying open space as a sensitive extension of architecture: not transitional areas, but places to
inhabit, where design and landscape engage in a balanced dialogue.
Visit: livingdivani.it
Polished terrazzo and poured concrete, tropical herringbone and exclusive ‘endless’ wood, together with oak planks in all the right tones: LeoLine’s Technique flooring collection celebrates the individuality of everyone’s home. Its uniquely practical, water-resistant finish is both durable and easy to look after, and is protected with Superguard for added protection from stains and scuffs.
11th to 13th MAY 2026
14th to 16th SEPTEMBER 2026
Many showrooms will also be open on Thursday the 17th
The Long Eaton Guild of Furniture Manufacturers invites you to visit the UK’s premier furniture exhibition located here in the famous furniture town of Long Eaton in the heart of the East Midlands, just a mile from junction 25 off the M1 Motorway. Over thirty well-appointed showrooms will be showcasing the latest collections from leading UK and International brands of upholstery, cabinets and bedroom furniture.
You will be assured of a warm welcome at all locations. www.longeatonguild.co.uk
If you would like to receive an illustrated invitation brochure prior to these events, please send your name and address to sales@artisticupholstery.co.uk
6 Causeway Carpets is increasing its stockholding in the UK to help cut lead times to three to five days, as it works to support independent retailers with premium service levels. ‘Making sure our service to retailers and their customers matches the quality of our Lusotufo-made carpets is our priority,’ says Richard Moore, Causeway Carpets commercial director.
Visit: causewaycarpets.com
7 Floorwise will be exhibiting alongside distributors Salesmark and Salesmark West at The Flooring Show South from 15-16 April: one of the first opportunities to see the brand’s new Lumiere premium retail-friendly underlay range, made using a hand-sorted blend of pre-consumer recycled PU foam and memory foam.
Visit: floorwise.co.uk
8 Helped by its Recover programme to take back postindustrial PVC from other industries, as well as collecting installation off-cuts and old floors, pre-consumer recycled content of Unilin’s dryback vinyl flooring has increased from 21% to at least 24% (SCS-R-20325). For its rigid click vinyl the figure has also risen from 22% to a minimum of 25%.
Visit: unilin.com
9 Vitra has updated its marketing materials with new imagery that spotlights updated classics alongside recent designs, introduced in fresh fabrics and colourways.
Visit: vitra.com
10 Crafted to gather – designed for decades. Bolia’s Kuma is a timeless, FSC-certified dining table, accommodating up to 20 guests when fully extended, making it ideal for everyday meals and grand celebrations. The thoughtful construction uses materials with care, combining enduring craftsmanship with functionality.
Visit: bolia.com
8
9 10
20 - 21 MAY 2026
Discover leading brands, explore new product ranges and connect with retailers who face the same challenges as you.
From independent furniture stores to national chains, The Spring Furniture & Bed Show is open to all furniture trade customers.
Register now to secure your place.
Discover more: springfurnitureshow.co.uk
Richard Renouf
A day’s work
A mystery visit, legal restrictions, slow progress and a blast from the past
What makes some inspections harder than others? Occasionally, it may be the subject matter, but there is a principle that no expert should get involved in matters outside his or her range of expertise, so such occasions should be rare. The real problem is more often the paperwork.
Today’s enquirer was a house developer who had built a small estate on land formerly used as a smallholding. They had asked me to take a look at the flooring in ‘Plot 4’. I told them I would be happy to do this, but as it was now occupied, could they supply the postal address so I could find it on my satnav and would know which house I was to visit when I got there.
Today’s callback was more than a week later and the real address bore no resemblance to any of the information
I had been told, or sent by email, and this included the architect’s drawings. I hope everything will be straightforward when I set off the day after tomorrow. At least I have more than just a house name and village, which happens so often in rural areas.
On my desk is a report that I have been working on for more than six months. Why? Because the solicitor gave me access to the client’s case file online. All 463 documents of it, and a large number of additional photographs which I haven’t actually counted. The issues are really simple, but the furniture is not available for me to inspect, so I’m having to check and double check everything, and the online access is very poor, and as I can’t print the documents out because of the solicitor’s security procedures I’m doing what I can and plodding through it.
A report I have, however, just finished was about some fitted furniture for three bedrooms in the customer’s home. The customer instructed me because the retailer is chasing a large unpaid amount. The fitting is incomplete because, according to the customer, the plans were wrong and incorrect items were delivered so lots of items were sent back and the correct items were not forthcoming.
However, the customer kept no record, so he could not confirm the original price, the schedule of items or the returns. He may be very disappointed with my report because I was only able to list what I found in each room and not to make any comparison with what should have been there or might have been there and was sent back. I hope the retailer has the records to justify the amount it
says he is withholding, because if the dispute is not resolved and goes to court, the district judge will need the full details. The report was, in the end, very simple, but could have been so much more meaningful with better information.
The phone just rang again. Another client – a business I prepared a report for more than two years ago after they issued a claim for an unpaid order – has heard yet again from their customer, who has counter-claimed for a sum more than three times the claim. The customer now wants to add ‘compensation for the stress and inconvenience’ and has applied to have another expert’s report admitted because she doesn’t agree with mine. She has submitted pages of ‘rebuttal’ of my report and the retailer wanted my comments.
I suggested they should wait for the hearing next week, which will only be to consider these last-minute additions. The judge will not be willing to consider her pages of commentary on either expert’s report and is very likely to cut across all her commentary by instructing that her ‘new’ expert has a meeting with me where we narrow down the issues and advise the judge directly what we agree on and what we disagree on so the court knows exactly what issues it needs to decide. This will add to the costs, but it will help the court to avoid wasted time dealing with opinions about opinions, and allegations from unqualified individuals who have a vested interest in their position.
Visit: www.richard-renouf.com
Richard Renouf is an independent furnishings consultant
The expert’s intray is overflowing…
Victoria Carpets
For generations, Victoria Carpets has been woven into British homes, bringing more than comfort underfoot. It’s a tradition of craftsmanship, where beauty, quality, and lasting charm go hand in hand. Whether choosing the timeless warmth of wool or the family-friendly resilience of our EasiCare ranges, every carpet we make is designed to support the way we live today.
The art of exceptional
Victoria Design Floors
From engineered wood to LVT, Victoria Design Floors brings the same thoughtful touch to every surface. Strong enough to handle life’s busiest rooms, yet elegant enough to inspire every corner, fl oors that live beautifully, just like you.
Security
Artek has bought a forest to secure premium birch
Furniture producer Artek has purchased a forest in Finland in order to help secure supplies of birch.
All Artek’s Aalto furniture continues to be made in Finland, using birch from local trees aged between 50 and 80 years old: some of the trees harvested today were seedlings when Aino and Alvar Aalto were working together. Seedlings sprouting now will not become Artek products until the end of this century.
Artek’s birch only grows in healthy mixed forests, which conventional forest management practices in Finland, primarily clearcutting, are making increasingly rare. As a result, it began searching for forests to buy.
The first site, in eastern Finland, will be managed using continuous cover forestry, where trees are felled on a selective basis, ensuring that the thinned forest remains an intact eco-system and its biodiversity is not overly disrupted. The varied gap sizes created through selective felling provide ideal conditions for birch to self-seed naturally alongside shade-tolerant trees, increasing species diversity without the need for planting.
Silver birch trees represent 4% of Finnish forests. The specific quality of timber needed for Artek’s products only
grows in mixed-wood forests, where the pioneer species, birch, self-seeds and grows straight and tall in search of light. Rotational forestry is the dominant forestry method in Finland, involving the clearcutting of sections of forest followed by replanting rather than natural rejuvenation. This method of forestry management does not favour the kind of quality birch wood needed for Artek’s long-lasting furniture and, if continued, will steadily reduce available supply.
Artek’s own forest will foster the
growth of high-quality silver birch. The goal is that 10% of Artek’s annual birch supply will be sourced from its own forest, with the first birch trees reaching maturity starting from around 2055. The scope of the project, however, reaches far beyond this goal. Currently, less than 2% of timber in Finland is harvested using continuous cover forestry. By proving the technical and economic viability of continuous cover, Artek intends to create a model other Finnish forest owners could follow.
Visit: artek.fi
Above left: the forest will be managed using continuous cover forestry to ensure supplies of birch for Artek
Eloquence The
Refined Comfort, Lasting Style
carpet range
The new Eloquence carpet is part of our much love Easy Living Range. Eloquence brings together style, practicality, and versatility for modern interiors. Available in 16 colours, Eloquence offers homeowners the flexibility to create spaces that feel both coordinated and expressive. With an 18 mm pile height, the carpet provides a comfortable, soft feel underfoot while maintaining durability for everyday use.
Manufactured from 100% polyester with a 2-ply yarn construction, Eloquence is designed to deliver both resilience and a refined finish. Its stripe soft back enhances comfort and makes installation easier, while the bleach-cleanable fibres help maintain a fresh appearance even in busy homes. Available in 4 m and 5 m widths, Eloquence combines practical performance with modern colour choice, making it an ideal solution for stylish, easy-care living spaces.
Getting warmer
Practicality is key for sales at Furniture Outlet
Trends are one thing, but what is it the public are buying? For Ianto Bellis, Furniture Outlet md, practicality is what sells. Earthy tones, texture, storage and ease of use are what the five-store Essex and London chain has seen consumers shop for.
‘There is a move toward warm textures, durable materials and practical designs suited to modern living. A warm, grounded palette is shaping UK interiors this year,’ he says.
For Furniture Outlet, top sellers are shades such as chocolate, mocha, latte, stone and cream, followed by warm neutrals like oatmeal, seashell, champagne and soft cream linen.
Green remains one of the strongest colour families, ranging from olive
TAPESTRY & MOSAIC
Smaller plank sizes offering more flexibility for more flooring options.
and moss to sage, forest and deeper heritage greens across upholstery, dining chairs and ottoman beds. Pumpkin, burnt orange, copper and rust red are becoming more popular as accent colours.
‘Muted blues, such as navy and mottled blue fabrics are still finding buyers, but warmer neutrals, greens and earthy browns remain the dominant choices. Interiors are shifting toward calming, nature‑inspired palettes that feel warm, grounded and restorative,’ says Bellis.
‘Soft‑touch fabrics create a warm, inviting feel that works in both
modern and traditional homes, and popular choices include oatmeal chenille corner sofas, moss green woven fabrics and champagne‑tone recliners. Textured chenille, woven blends and natural linens are defining UK living rooms this year as people are prioritising comfort and tactility, choosing fabrics that feel cosy, durable and lived‑in.’
Shoppers are also looking to maximise the space they have, particularly in new builds, and modular upholstery is popular.
The demand for practicality has
reached dining, where heat‑resistant, scratch‑resistant and stain‑resistant table surfaces are sought after. ‘White or light grey sintered stone tops with subtle multi coloured veining are especially in demand, often paired with black metal bases for a clean, modern look. Shoppers want premium‑looking dining tables that offer everyday practicality without the upkeep of natural marble.’
Shoppers also want to tailor what they buy to their situation, rather than accepting someone else’s decision on how many chairs are needed.
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‘People want dining spaces that feel individual and layered rather than fully coordinated. Customers are mixing chair styles, colours and materials to create curated, characterful dining spaces. A common combination is white sintered stone tables paired with burnt orange, cream and olive dining chairs.’
They also want movement‑friendly dining chairs. ‘Swivel bases, cantilever frames and soft‑touch fabrics offer
comfort and flexibility, making them ideal for multifunctional dining spaces. Customers’ homes are becoming more adaptable, and flexible seating supports both everyday use and entertaining.’
One sales pattern that shows no sign of slowing down is bedroom storage. ‘Ottoman storage beds are becoming a bedroom essential, particularly in new‑build homes where storage is at a premium.
‘Shoppers want furniture that feels modern, comfortable and practical. The trend we’re seeing reflects real homes: warm textures, durable dining materials and colours that work in any space. People are choosing pieces that look great and stand up to everyday life. Homes are becoming more layered, more personal and more focused on long‑term usability.’
Visit: furnitureoutletstores.co.uk
FLOORING INSTALLATION PRODUCTS
LOOKING AFTER FLOORS AND REPUTATIONS FROM THE
Igniting the season
The Ember modular outdoor kitchen can transform spaces
Driven by evolving consumer demand for multifunctional garden spaces, Maze has seen strong early success this year, fuelled by the growing popularity of its Ember modular outdoor kitchen range. Combining high-end design with practical innovation, Ember is redefining how people cook, entertain and relax outdoors, according to Maze.
At the heart of the success is the Ember range’s modular concept. Created with flexibility in mind, it allows users to design a bespoke outdoor kitchen tailored to their space and lifestyle. From linear layouts to expansive U-shaped configurations, homeowners can create a setup that works perfectly for their garden. This ensures that whether the space is compact or large, the result is practical and visually striking.
A defining feature of Ember is its premium construction. Each unit is finished with durable sintered stone worktops to resist heat, scratches and the elements. Sleek waterfall-edge detailing creates a contemporary look that is both refined and built to impress. Constructed from aluminium-coated steel and designed for outdoor use, the range delivers long-lasting performance without compromising on style.
Ember’s largest U-shaped configuration highlights the system’s full capability. Ideal for larger gardens, it incorporates every component to create a complete outdoor kitchen and entertaining hub. At its centre is the dual-fuel six-burner
gas barbeque module in 304-grade stainless steel, combining gas and charcoal cooking for versatility. It features a rear rotisserie burner, and a side burner to enable a range of cooking techniques. LED controls add a modern touch, while cast-iron cooking grids ensure even heat distribution. Soft-close drawers and generous storage enhance everyday usability. For those seeking more creativity, the addition of an Argentinian grill and optional 18-inch or 21-inch kamado expands cooking possibilities. From slow smoking to open-fire grilling, users can explore diverse styles and create memorable experiences.
To maximise this potential, Ember kitchens pair seamlessly with Maze pergolas, creating a sheltered outdoor
setting that can be enjoyed year-round. Maze has also introduced pull-down projector screens that integrate into the Como pergola range, making it easy to host outdoor film nights or enjoy major sporting events such as the upcoming FIFA World Cup. Ember kitchens also fit perfectly beneath Maze’s popular barbeque shelters, providing a cooking space for year-round use.
The result is a stylish and functional garden space designed for modern outdoor living, a future-proof solution that evolves with homeowners’ needs while maintaining a consistent design aesthetic across the garden. This balance of innovation and practicality ensures long-term appeal and lasting value for all.
Visit: mazeliving.co.uk
Como pergola with pull down screen
Large Ember U-shaped kitchen
Combine Ember with a pergola
New Range
LASTING BEAUTY & COMFORT
Add a touch of sophistication to your home with our new Stratford range, available in nine understated yet contemporary shades. Offering the perfect backdrop for your individual style, Stratford is gentle on the eye yet impressively resilient and hard-wearing - bringing lasting beauty and comfort to your home for years to come.
This new 10-gauge product is available in 40oz and 50oz weights, and in 4m or 5m guaranteed full widths, making it the perfect choice to suit every space with elegance and durability.
Penthouse quality – naturally
Adonis
Eros
Nestor
Ariel
Fabian
Romeo
Diana
Juliet Venus
Luxurious Wool Carpets
Vital
Sustainability, consumer education and action against rogue traders remain key activities
The cost-of-living crisis led to a surge in unknown bed and mattress brands targeting consumers, which is likely to continue in 2026. While the NBF’s consumer research found that instances of purchasing beds from the back of a van declined last year, unscrupulous traders are using social media advertisements and online marketplaces to attract unsuspecting buyers. These activities damage the reputation of reputable bed manufacturers and retailers by creating the false impression that high-specification products can be bought at much lower prices. That is
why buying from a reputable bed retailer that stocks NBF-approved member brands is more important than ever.
‘At the core of NBF membership is adherence to its Code of Practice. Later this month, the sixth edition will be released. The code requires manufacturer members to pass an audit with strict requirements and sets out criteria to ensure that processes and procedures are in place for supply chain scrutiny and regulatory compliance,’ says Tom Williams, NBF sustainability and circular economy lead.
‘As part of our code of practice, we have our Due Diligence Random Testing
Tom Williams, NBF sustainability and circular economy lead
Consumer education remains a priority
programme, which ensures we check NBF members for ongoing compliance, and not just at the time of the audit. We also purchase non-member products as part of the programme and share all the results with our Primary Authority Partner, West Yorkshire Trading Standards. WYTS conducts its own investigations, often visiting manufacturing sites to provide expert advice or, if necessary, initiate legal proceedings against the business. If the company in question is outside West Yorkshire, it contacts the relevant trading standards authority to follow up.
‘Equally, consumer education remains a priority to help us tackle ruthless traders from the other side of the coin. We have significantly increased our consumer scams awareness education, highlighting the benefits of buying NBF-approved brands from reputable retailers and the dangers of not doing so. To solidify our commitment to this, we will launch a new dedicated consumer campaign later this year, which we encourage all the bed trade to get involved with – so watch this space.
‘Sustainability continues to remain a focus during 2026 with the upcoming work required on digital product passports to support the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation. To further assist
NBF members on their sustainability journeys, we’re releasing a comprehensive NBF Sustainability Guide to strengthen existing guidance, such as our freely available Ecodesign Principles and NBF Chemical Claims Guide. We are also refreshing and updating the NBF Pledge for Our Planet to keep members on track.
‘Most excitingly, we have been busy researching how the industry can measure the cleanliness of reused and recycled materials from beds and mattresses through our Knowledge Transfer Partnership with Manchester Metropolitan University. Circularity is critical to the future of the bed industry and the planet, and we look forward to launching the test with NBF members later this year.’
To further support retailers, the NBF introduced a new level of benefits to the Retail Champions Scheme last summer. In addition to the free package – which includes a listing on the consumer website bedadvice.co.uk, and a POS pack – the enhanced package takes business support to the next level, starting from £250 a year for small retailers.
Those who have signed up have already benefitted from sustainability insights; in-depth information on the latest product legislation; expert support and advice on HR, health and safety, legal, tax and VAT issues; annual NBF consumer bed-buying research; discounted City & Guilds training and the Bed Show’s first VIP lounge.
Visit: bedfed.org.uk
Relentless
Introducing meaningful product developments across the year will allow retailers to re-engage shoppers and build momentum
Sealy is preparing for another significant year in its recent history. Not because of a single launch, but because of a carefully orchestrated wave of innovation that will reach retail floors throughout 2026 and beyond.
By introducing meaningful product developments across the year, Sealy’s strategy is designed to give retailers not only a strong start but sustained momentum through every key trading period.
The first chapter begins at AIS Beds
Show, where Sealy will offer an early glimpse into the next phase of its product evolution on 28-29 April. The company says this isn’t a simple update or refresh, but ‘marks the beginning of a new approach centred on performance, engineering depth and commercial viability. Each introduction for 2026 has been developed to bring something genuinely new to the category.’
Across the remainder of the year, further technologies, comfort stories and range developments will be introduced,
giving retail partners a consistently refreshed floor and ongoing reasons to re-engage shoppers. In a category where maintaining differentiation can be challenging, this rhythm of innovation has been designed to support sell-through, spark continued interest and give retail teams the widest Sealy product and price offering to date.
Behind this ambitious schedule is Sealy’s global research and development network, a resource that continues to set the brand apart. In the UK, the
programme is led by Natalie Armstrong, Sealy UK product development manager, whose team earned recognition at last year’s Bed Show with the Bed Product of the Year award for the Elevate Edison Luxury Plush mattress. This addition to the successful Elevate collection broadened the range of comfort feels and reinforced Sealy’s approach to product creation.
‘With dedicated engineering expertise, advanced testing facilities and a multi-year innovation pipeline already underway, Sealy is uniquely positioned to introduce new technologies at a pace few can match,’ says Armstrong. ‘Our close alignment with the global R&D centre,
the largest in the southern hemisphere, enables proprietary innovation, faster development cycles and a depth of technical knowledge that influences every mattress, component and comfort proposition brought to market.
‘The result is a year that represents a step change for the brand. Not simply a “new collection year”, but a defining moment, one that reflects significant investment, a clear long-term vision and a commitment to helping retailers meet the needs of today’s consumers with confidence.’
Retailers will be able to explore the first wave of Sealy’s 2026 lineup across two dedicated environments this
spring. The Sealy Sky Lounge at INDX Beds Show will offer an immersive showcase for buyers, with the space remaining open at Cranmore Park from 31 April-22 May on an appointment-only basis (retailers should contact their Sealy representative). Sealy will also have a presence on the show floor at Stand P8, providing an initial look at what’s set to shape the year ahead, alongside its current Posturepedic product offering.
‘For Sealy, 2026 represents more than product: it represents momentum and ambition. And it sets a new benchmark for what retailers can expect from the brand in the year ahead,’ says Armstrong.
Visit: sealy.co.uk
Sealy plans to reveal the latest innovations, developed alongside its global research and development network, throughout the year
Introducing a Wave of New Innovation
This year marks another significant milestone in Sealy’s recent history, with a whole new program of product launches, centred on unique technology, product performance, and commercial viability.
This carefully orchestrated wave of innovation will reach retail floors throughout 2026 and beyond.
The first chapter begins this April at the INDX Spring Show, where Sealy will unveil a brand-new collection, providing the first preview of these exciting developments.
INDX Beds Show | 28–29 April | Stand P8
Sealy Sky Lounge | 28 April – 22 May* | Cranmore Park
*31 April – 22 May - By appointment only
Recharge to thrive
How better sleep supports everyday performance
Sleep has become an important conversation in modern wellbeing. Increasing awareness of the link between rest, recovery and daily performance is shaping how consumers approach their sleep environment.
Purecare’s UK Sleep Study, which surveyed more than 1,000 people across Britain, provides valuable insight into how sleep habits and expectations are evolving. The research found that 99.8% of respondents consider sleep essential to their wellbeing. However, despite this strong awareness, many still struggle to achieve consistently restorative rest. The largest group rated their sleep quality at seven out of ten, suggesting that while people are getting enough sleep, they are not always experiencing its full benefits.
One of the most common barriers to recovery identified in the study was temperature. 60% of respondents said they often feel too hot at night, while almost half reported that stress or anxiety disrupts their sleep. These factors highlight the importance of creating a sleep environment that supports both physical comfort and mental relaxation. Sleeping position also plays a significant role. Nearly 70% say they prefer to sleep on their side, reinforcing the need for supportive pillows and pressure-relieving materials. Purecare’s Wave Pillow and Nano Pillow are designed to align with these habits,
combining ergonomic support with cooling fabrics to encourage more consistent rest.
The research also revealed that many consumers underestimate the role of mattress protection and bedding layers. Over a third said they do not use a mattress protector, often because they are unsure of the benefits. Products such as the OmniGuard Advance Five Sided Mattress Protector are designed to help address hygiene concerns while maintaining breathability and comfort.
Recognition from independent organisations has further strengthened trust in performance-focused sleep products. In 2025, Purecare received Good Housekeeping Approved status, alongside industry awards for mattress protection and bedding supply, reflecting a growing demand for solutions that
combine innovation with reliability. As the focus on sleep recovery continues to grow, consumers are increasingly viewing their bedrooms as spaces that support wellbeing, productivity and resilience. Small changes such as improving airflow, upgrading pillows or introducing protective bedding layers can have a meaningful impact over time. Better sleep supports better days. As awareness grows, so too does the opportunity to create environments that help people recharge, reset and perform at their best.
Retailers and new customers interested in exploring Purecare’s latest sleep innovations can meet the team at the INDX Beds Show, where the brand will be presenting its approach to recovery-focused sleep solutions. Visit: purecarehome.co.uk
Wake up to the rest of your life
For over a century, Sleepeezee has been crafting beds that go beyond sleep — they support in everything you do.
Built by hand in our Rochester factory, each mattress is the result of time-honoured techniques, dedicated craftspeople, and carefully chosen, premium materials. Because great sleep isn’t just about tonight. It’s about waking up refreshed, recharged, and ready for everything ahead.
With Sleepeezee, better nights lead to better lives.
Jessica Deluxe Shown on Joshua Latte
A lighter footprint
Kaymed’s sustainability journey is focused on measurable progress
Kaymed has long been known for pioneering technical foams that improve sleep health. Today, that same innovation is shaping its sustainability journey: one focused on measurable progress, responsible manufacturing and a cleaner future for the sleep industry.
‘Aligned with the National Bed Federation’s Pledge for Our Planet, we are embedding science into our operations and using data to guide meaningful reductions in our environmental impact. This approach ensures our sustainability efforts are focused, transparent and built for long-term results,’ says Terry Bridger, Kaymed UK sales manager.
The journey began in 2021 when independent specialists evaluated the company’s full carbon emissions profile. This analysis formed the basis for targeted improvements across energy use, materials, waste management and product design.
Energy efficiency became an early priority. In 2022, a full transition to LED lighting across plants and offices was completed, cutting lighting-related energy usage by an estimated 68%. Production saw the phasing out of energy-intensive fibre manufacturing and investment in more efficient equipment for bed-in-abox products, significantly reducing the operational energy consumption footprint. In 2025, about £1m was invested in a new foam pouring tunnel, which produces squarer, more consistent blocks, reducing trim waste.
‘Kaymed maintains a zero tolerance
approach to foam waste. 100% of all foam offcuts are reused onsite to create durable foundation layers, keeping valuable materials in a closed production loop. Our Dublin and Kildare sites operate with a zero waste to landfill policy, supported by waste segregation for plastics, timber and mixed materials. Wooden pallets are repurposed into wood pellets, while non-recyclable remnants are directed to energy recovery rather than landfill,’ says Bridger.
‘We are redesigning materials with a focus on safety and environmental responsibility. Across our foams and mattresses, we are incorporating more products using expandable graphite technology, replacing older chemical-led flame retardants. Increasingly, our premium mattresses use chemical-free flame-retardant fabrics: a healthier
and cleaner solution.
‘All Kaymed comfort foams meet the EuroPUR CertiPUR standard, ensuring clean, traceable and safe material sourcing. We also manufacture our own fibre using 70% recycled polyester, and use 100% recyclable polyethylene packaging to make disposal and recycling easier for retailers and consumers. The Regulatex mattresses use sustainably sourced natural latex with graphite temperature-regulating, antimicrobial and hypoallergenic properties, and the Thermaphase Ultra Phase Change temperature-regulating sleep technology, infused with copper and precious metals, harnesses eco-design elements including Tencel blend cover, 70% recycled fibres, 100% repurposed foundation and CertiPUR foams.’
Email: Terry.bridger@kaymedworld.com
Above: Kaymed is handcrafted in Kildare Above left: The first planting of Guaranteed Irish Forest
Kaymed has a factory near The Curragh, County Kildare
Smarter sleep, designed sustainably
- Cooling comfort with natural Latex
- Thermal comfort with eco-design
The Curragh - our home in Kildare, Ireland
Broken system
The industry faces a pivotal choice
‘Every year in the UK 6.8million mattresses reach end-of-life. Most people assume they’re recycled. They’re not. At best, they are partially processed: steel is recovered, while the majority of materials are lost to energy recovery, low-grade reuse or landfill. The industry calls it recycling, but it isn’t circular,’ says Paul Beckett, Reborn director.
‘But it doesn’t have to be like this. The current model is built for throughput, not material recovery. Shredding enables speed and volume but destroys valuable components. Manual dismantling preserves materials such as foam, fibres and spring units, but the infrastructure and end markets are lacking to scale up.
‘Just 660,000 mattresses are genuinely recycled into new products and more than 53,000tonnes of material still end up in energy recovery, downcycling or landfill.’
Reborn works with manufacturers to take back end-of-life mattresses, recover reusable components and remanufacture
them into new materials and finished products, including mattresses, divans, ottomans and pet beds.
‘Alongside this inefficiency, a more complex issue is emerging. Recovered components – particularly spring units – are being reintroduced into new mattresses without declaration. This creates a grey area where recycled content is not disclosed, products are sold as fully new, and manufacturers lose control of their own materials. Manual recyclers can achieve significantly higher returns selling recovered components than through traditional recycling routes. This has unintentionally created a parallel supply chain: one that operates outside formal declaration and verification.
‘If the industry is to move forward, it must stop treating mattresses as waste. But a new model is beginning to emerge: one that shifts responsibility back to the manufacturer. Instead of outsourcing end-of-life to third parties, manufacturers
can recover materials from their own products, remanufacture components into new inputs and reintroduce them into their own product lines: all within a fully traceable and declared system.’
Beckett outlines his vision of circularity. ‘Textiles are reprocessed into engineered non-wovens suitable for comfort layers, insulation and upholstery; foam is re-bonded into new foam products and used in mattresses, furniture, gym equipment and underlay, and spring systems are extracted, tested and reused.
‘The mattress industry now faces a clear choice: continue allowing recovered components to flow into an undeclared grey market: reducing landfill but increasing risk, or establish a transparent, regulated circular system, solving landfill, compliance and trust simultaneously. The mattress industry doesn’t have a recycling problem, it has a system design problem. Fix the system and the materials follow.’ Email: info@matt-less.com
Shoppers want to know what is in their mattresses
Putting sustainability into sleep
Material and design choices are vital
Sustainability in the mattress industry is often framed as a forward-looking challenge. Yet, in many ways, it is also a return to materials and principles that have supported human comfort for centuries. Long before the introduction of polyurethane foam, people slept on natural fibres: materials that were breathable, resilient and inherently circular. Natural materials such as wool and cotton were not alternatives: they were the standard.
‘Today, as the industry faces increasing pressure to reduce its environmental impact, these materials – and others –are once again becoming central to how we think about design, performance and responsibility. At Enkev, we see this shift not as a trend but a necessary evolution,’ says Chris Francis, Enkev UK md.
‘Sustainability can no longer be addressed at a single stage of the product lifecycle. It must be designed into the product from the very beginning. Eco-design is becoming a critical driver, requiring manufacturers to consider not only how a mattress performs but also how it is made, what it is made from and what happens at the end of its life.’
This means selecting materials that are renewable, traceable and can be safely returned to the environment and designing products that allow for separation, recovery and reuse, rather than creating complex constructions that ultimately end up as landfill.
‘Manufacturing processes are evolving. Reducing energy consumption, limiting the use of chemicals and improving
supply chain transparency are no longer optional: they are becoming industry expectations. The challenge is not only to innovate but to do so in a way that is both scalable and commercially viable,’ says Francis.
Natural fibres offer a unique advantage in this transition. Enkev’s PURe materials, such as coconut fibres and horsehair, are sustainable by origin and deliver inherent performance benefits. Their structure allows for ventilation, moisture regulation and durability: characteristics that synthetic materials often attempt to replicate.
‘True sustainability extends beyond materials and manufacturing. Packaging, logistics and end-of-life solutions are increasingly part of the conversation. While mattress recycling remains
complex, progress is being made through improved material selection and system-level thinking. At Enkev, we work closely with our partners to develop solutions that integrate these elements, combining natural materials with engineering expertise to create products that are both high-performing and future-ready,’ says Francis.
‘Achieving greater sustainability in the bedding sector is not the result of a single innovation but of many interconnected decisions, made across the entire value chain. In that sense, the future of sleep may not be entirely new. Instead, it may be a refinement of what has always worked: natural materials, intelligently applied and designed for the world we live in today.’
Visit: enkev.com
Enkev’s PURe materials are sustainable by origin and deliver inherent performance benefits
Let’s build the next generation of comfort. Together.
Don’t Just Choose Fillings. Choose the Right Partner.
At ENKEV®, we don’t just supply materials; we help shape the future of natural comfort.
As a customer-focused partner, we work alongside our clients to develop, refine and successfully integrate natural fillings into their product lines. Whether you are evolving an existing range or building something entirely new, our team brings the expertise to make it happen — seamlessly.
We help you go beyond sustainability. We help you deliver products that meet the highest standards of comfort, quality, durability and safety.
Our PURe product offers a sustainable and recyclable alternative to traditional PU foam. Crafted from a harmonious blend of plant and animal fibres, including coconut fibres (Cocolok) and natural hair (Hairlok). It is expertly bonded with natural latex and tailored to match the density of various PU foams. The result is a completely plastic-free solution that prioritises both performance and environmental responsibility, making it a highly effective PU replacement for mattress and furniture applications.
PURe ingredients produce 4 to 20 times lower CO2 emissions compared to traditional PU foam. Their highly breathable structure enhances ventilation while ensuring durability, comfort and flexibility.
Rethinking an essential
Take an often overlooked mattress element and make it sustainable
Sustainability in bed manufacturing is no longer optional: it’s now an industry expectation. As consumers increasingly demand natural materials and greater chemical transparency, manufacturers are being challenged to rethink even the smallest components within mattress construction.
‘At Handy, this led us to re-engineer one of the most overlooked elements of a mattress: the narrow-woven tape edge. Traditionally, tape edges are produced using polyester, polypropylene or other man-made yarns. While these materials offer strength and efficiency, they often require additional
fire-retardant chemical treatments or can emit harmful substances when exposed to flame. For brands striving to create more natural sleep environments, this presents a clear contradiction,’ says Sara Morris, Handy operations director.
‘Our objective was to develop a tape edge that combined natural, ecofriendly properties with inherent FR performance but without chemical intervention. Cotton was quickly ruled out due to its flammability. Wool, however, offered a compelling solution. Naturally flame-resistant, renewable and biodegradable, wool aligns strongly
with sustainability goals. The challenge was technical: narrow weaving looms are designed for synthetic yarns, while wool is more commonly knitted.
‘To overcome this, we sourced a specialist wool yarn fine enough for narrow weaving yet strong enough to match synthetic performance. Looms required modification, weaving speeds were reduced, and improved extraction systems were introduced to manage fibre debris. A dedicated wool production area was also established to maintain consistency.’
The result is a narrow-woven wool tape edge delivering inherent FR performance without chemical flame retardants.
Sustainability gains extend to colour flexibility. Wool can be dyed in smaller batches of around 20,000m, allowing bespoke colours with lower minimum orders. Only organic dyes certified to Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) are used.
‘As suppliers to the bedding sector, we have a responsibility to rethink established materials and pursue safer, more sustainable alternatives,’ says Nick Harland-Smith, Handy md and co-founder.
‘Since its introduction, demand has grown rapidly, with the one millionth metre produced earlier this year. True sustainability lies in the detail, and sometimes meaningful change begins at the edge.’
Visit: handyltd.co.uk
Naturalmat uses Handy’s narrow-woven tape edge
New colourways are available
Weaving the tape edge
Crafted using durable materials and considered finishes, every piece balances long-lasting performance with refined aesthetics. Weather-resistant constructions, practical detailing and comfortable proportions ensure the collection is as functional as it is visually considered, standing the test of time in both style and use.
Key ranges featured: Chatsworth Dining Chair and Round Dining Table.
Today and the future
Heimtextil’s New Talent section, curated by Trendease International, offered a look at now and the future. Here are highlights. Visit: heimtextil.messefrankfurt.com
CIARA HARRIS
Interior textiles and finishes release invisible VOCs (volatile organic compounds) into home environments, compromising our health. Ciara Harris envisions a future where Colour, Material, Finish design transforms homes into responsive, resilient, low-carbon living systems. She has collated her research into The Biospheric CMF Design Handbook: a speculative guide and living document for designers of the year 2050. Email: ciarasharris1414@gmail.com
MEGAN LEECH
Megan Leech’s London design studio works at the intersection of craft, research and innovation. Each collection is a technical investigation into hand-woven construction, creating bespoke fabrics defined by delicate pattern, gestural form and contemporary use of colour. This sample is a double-layer weave, with a hand-painted silk warp combined with a geometric grid. It is composed of worsted wool and silk. Visit: meganleech.com
CLAIRE DEUFFIC OLDANI
French–Italian textile designer Claire Deuffic Oldani specialises in weaving and is pursuing an MA in Biodesign at Central Saint Martins. She has a maximalist and edgy style, with a strong interest in unusual materials, and an experimentative approach to weaving. She aims to work in luxury textiles while combining her craftsmanship and scientific knowledge about materials for textile alternatives and sustainable proactive change.
Email: claire.deuffic.oldani@gmail.com
SEVERINA
SEIDL
Severina Seidl is an award-winning hand embroiderer and artist from Germany. She studied at the Royal School of Needlework and creates art pieces and surface solutions for interiors. Seidl transforms traditional embroidery materials, combining them with fine art elements. Inspired by the organic unpredictability of her drawings, she experiments widely, embracing abstraction, texture and imperfection, leaving her pieces open to interpretation.
Email: severina.seidl@gmx.de
Herringbone, your way
Van Gogh now has four more wood-look designs reflecting specific interior looks
Karndean Designflooring has introduced four more wood-look designs to its Van Gogh herringbone collection, with each style reflecting a specific interior look. The new additions have been curated to make it easier to create a home that feels both personal and effortlessly stylish, with a herringbone finish built for everyday living.
The designs, available in 18in x 4.5in planks, focus on what homeowners are asking for in 2026: natural wood tones, authentic grain detail, soft matt textures and the easy practicality of LVT, for a floor that delivers real timber character while staying durable, moisture-resistant and easy to care for in hard-working spaces such as kitchens, hallways and living areas.
Classic Oak is designed for those drawn to the Biophilic and Botanical,
creating a mood that feels grounded, restorative and connected to nature. This look celebrates naturalistic floors alongside nourishing greens and layered organic materials. Classic Oak’s authentic wood character adds warmth and depth to spaces styled with linen, rattan, raw timber, stoneware and botanical pattern. Laid in herringbone, it brings a crafted, heritage feel that still reads modern.
Inspired by the Timeless Neutrals and Low-Key Luxury trend, French Oak leans into warm whites, soft beiges and earth-tinted neutrals in a natural matt finish. It complements both classic and contemporary settings and pairs beautifully with vintage accents, tactile fabrics and subtle glamour: think brushed metals, plush textures and handcrafted details. It is understated, but never ordinary.
Natural Prime Oak is made for homes that do it all. Rooted in the functional, everyday direction, it supports interiors that feel upbeat and practical, where style meets real routines. The natural oak tone makes Natural Prime Oak a versatile choice for modern family homes, with playful colour pops and relaxed layered spaces. Herringbone adds that sense of intention and design confidence, even where life gets busiest.
Welcoming and nostalgic, with a cleaner, more curated edge, Country Oak reflects 2026’s refreshed Country Farmhouse style. This direction blends cosy heritage details with Shaker simplicity and lighter, more contemporary finishes. Country Oak works beautifully in kitchens, dining rooms and snugs. It pairs with painted cabinetry, soft pastels, playful checks or florals, and pre-loved
Natural Prime Oak
furniture that makes a home feel comfortably lived in.
Although these are herringbone designs, they can be laid in different patterns, from classic herringbone to straight lay or block layouts, depending on the desired look. Because the new Van Gogh herringbones are also available as full-length planks, it is easy to carry the same design from room to room or use it to zone feature areas, such as a statement dining table, or to subtly break up open-plan living spaces. Borders can also be added around a herringbone floor – using a herringbone sized plank or a contrasting design strip – to frame the room and give it a tailored, finished feel.
‘Our Spring Edit is about giving retailers fresh, trend-led designs to inspire customers. By introducing four of our most popular Van Gogh wood designs in a herringbone format, we’re enabling retailers to meet growing demand for expressive floors that still deliver on durability, comfort and ease of care. These designs align perfectly with predicted 2026 home trends and cater for homeowners looking to get confidently creative with their interiors
without compromising on performance or peace of mind,’ says Richard Allen, Karndean Designflooring sales director.
As well as delivering strong aesthetic appeal, the updated Van Gogh collection provides the everyday benefits homeowners have come to expect from the brand: quiet and comfortable underfoot, with realistic surface textures replicating the character of natural timber without the maintenance
challenges, making it an ideal choice for high-traffic areas such as kitchens, hallways and open-plan living spaces.
Karndean Designflooring will be exhibiting the new Van Gogh herringbone designs at The Flooring Show South on 15-16 April, giving retailers and installers the opportunity to view the expanded range and explore styling options.
Visit: karndean.co.uk/whatsnew
Classic Oak
Country Oak laid with straight planks in the living room and as a herringbone in the kitchen
Natural versatility
Sheepskin has always held a unique place in British homes
Sheepskin rugs are more than a home accessory: they are the foundation of what Hanlin does. For decades, its focus has been on bringing the natural benefits of sheepskin to both interior and exterior spaces, combining traditional materials with the evolving needs of modern homes and hospitality environments.
Sheepskin has always held a unique place in British homes. Its natural softness, durability and warmth create an immediate sense of comfort that synthetic materials rarely replicate. Hanlin sees this first-hand through its customers – from independent retailers
and interior designers to hospitality venues – who continue to choose it for its authenticity and tactile quality.
Inside the home, a sheepskin rug offers an effortless way to introduce warmth and texture. Whether draped over a chair, layered on a wooden floor or placed beside a bed, it creates a welcoming focal point. Sheepskin works particularly well in contemporary interiors, where its natural texture softens clean lines and minimalist schemes.
Sheepskin rugs are no longer limited to indoor spaces. As gardens, patios and terraces increasingly become extensions
of the home, demand for sheepskin in covered outdoor areas continues to grow. Draped over benches or chairs they add both warmth and comfort, while their natural temperature-regulating properties make them practical year-round, keeping users warm in cooler weather and comfortable in warmer months.
This has been especially evident within the hospitality sector, where sheepskin rugs transform outdoor seating areas at boutique hotels, cafes and countryside pubs. A simple addition of sheepskin can elevate a space, creating an inviting atmosphere that encourages guests to stay longer and enjoy the environment.
Sustainability is another reason sheepskin remains relevant today. As a natural byproduct of the food industry, it represents a responsible use of a material that might otherwise go to waste.
Hanlin believes strongly in the longevity of natural materials: a wellmade sheepskin rug can last for many years, making it both a sustainable and practical choice for consumers seeking quality over disposability.
The enduring popularity of sheepskin rugs reflects a broader shift in design: one that values authenticity, comfort and natural materials. For Hanlin, it is rewarding to see this appreciation continue to grow, as more homes and businesses rediscover the simple luxury that sheepskin brings to any space. Tel: 01564 702 116
Sustainability is another reason sheepskin remains relevant, alongside style and temperature regulation
Separate and connect
Limen’s premise is built around the idea of a threshold
Warli’s latest indoor rug Limen, by Paolo Zani, sees production begin on a traditional manual loom using the panja weaving technique, which employs a wide-toothed metal comb to compact the weft. Using this technique reflects Warli’s connection to craftsmanship, handmade techniques and bringing together material quality, technical precision and contemporary sensibility.
The name – derived from the Latin word meaning limit, boundary, frontier –evokes the rug’s conceptual premise, built around the idea of a threshold: a line that both separates and connects.
‘Limen originates from a thoughtful interplay between two colours, from which three distinct patterns emerge, defining the identity of the piece. The decoration highlights the rhythm of the graphic mark and the tension between order and variation, translating onto the surface a composition that is essential yet rich in visual depth,’ says Zani.
Made of fine wool, Limen is available in shades of green, yellow, and red.
‘With Limen we have confirmed our aptitude for transforming the rug into a design element that defines space, shapes its atmosphere and strengthens its character: within a proposal that continues to expand the dialogue between textile surfaces, furnishings and lighting,’ says Zani.
Limen will be officially launched later this month at Salone.
Visit: warli.it
Setting rules
Consumer credit is governed by the Financial Conduct Authority
Consumer credit – be it IFC, deferred payment, credit cards or interest bearing – remains a vital part of the retail landscape. But the market will see changes to one of its largest components.
‘Buy Now Pay Later is already used by millions of people in the UK. Bringing these products into regulation will that consumers receive clearer information, checks to make sure borrowing is affordable, and access to support if they get into financial difficulty,’ says the Financial Conduct Authority.
‘Our aim is to ensure consumers benefit from appropriate protections while allowing the sector to continue to innovate and provide useful credit options. We do not want to unintentionally or inappropriately restrict access to affordable credit. However, there are indications that some deferred payment credit lending may not currently be affordable. Where lending is unaffordable, consumers may miss repayments, incur late fees and see their financial situation worsen. That is why we are
applying our current creditworthiness rules to DPC.’
The FCA has the responsibility of governing the consumer credit market.
‘Firms that provide consumer credit in the UK generally need to be authorised by the FCA. We supervise authorised firms through a range of tools including data monitoring, supervisory engagement and reviewing information from consumers and firms.
‘Where we identify unauthorised activity we can take action, which may include warnings to consumers, working with partners to disrupt illegal activity or enforcement action where appropriate. Consumers can also check whether a firm is authorised using our firm checker tool.’
When it comes to dealing with shoppers, the onus is on those offering the credit to make sure staff are giving the correct information about the credit package. ‘Firms are responsible for ensuring their staff are appropriately trained and that they comply with FCA rules when offering regulated financial products. We expect firms to have appropriate systems and controls in place to make sure customers are treated
fairly and receive the information they need to make informed decisions,’ it says.
‘We supervise the firms we regulate and expect them to meet our standards when offering credit products. This includes requirements around providing clear information, assessing affordability where relevant, and treating customers fairly. If firms fail to meet these standards, we can take supervisory, or in particularly serious cases, enforcement action. If consumers are unhappy with how they have been treated, they are able to complain to the firm and then to the Financial Ombudsman Service.’
The FCA is keen for providers to make use of AI. ‘As part of how we support innovation and sustainable growth, we encourage firms to experiment with AI, use our sandbox services, and to look at our Innovation Pathways. We have also launched a review into the long-term impact of AI on retail financial services. Household budgets remain stretched, reinforcing the need for responsible lending and early, appropriate support for those in financial difficulty. These will continue to be a focus for us.’
Visit: fca.org.uk
Buy Now Pay Later is used by millions of people in the UK
Credit for all
Buyline wants to make sure small retailers can compete
Hugh Phillips, Buyline chief executive takes a personal experience to illustrate his view on retail finance. ‘I went to one of the big carpet retailers on the retail park near me. There were two members of staff serving on a Saturday afternoon, and I waited 20 minutes to be served, got pointed to a display and told to choose what I wanted. It wasn’t a great experience and I didn’t buy. A few days later, my wife suggested we try the store that I’ve driven past 30 times in the last month and hadn’t even considered. We popped in there, we had a really good conversation, were really, really happy with the service that we got. They didn’t offer finance whatsoever.
‘But we’re now talking to the owner about offering finance, because he said: “The number of times customers ask me for finance and I say to them, Oh, I can’t afford to offer finance. No finance company will touch me because I’m too small.” Well, we will. We will allow him to offer finance. And on the fact that he’s saying he couldn’t afford to offer finance, he was amazed to find out what it cost.
‘Yes, it does eat a little bit into the margin. But if it’s driving your sales, if it’s
doing the right thing and driving your business, it should be used more as a marketing tool than a margin erosion problem. We see the ability to give smaller retailers the power to compete with the big boys, because let’s face it, we know they beat them on service. They make a far better cup of tea than you’ll ever get from the retail parks. Small businesses have to be able to compete on all levels, and what we try and do is make sure that they have the right products to compete.’
And it’s a topic Phillips knows well, having worked in retail finance for 17 years. Before that he spent two decades as a retailer.
‘I was a retail manager, a retail area manager. So, I’m one of the few people you’ll meet in this industry who used to be the person that filled out the forms, explaining the benefit of consumer finance. Whether it is filling out forms as a retailer, underwriting applications at Barclays, introducing ecommerce at Klarna, I’ve pretty much seen the industry at all different levels. So it’s an industry I feel quite passionate about.
‘We can onboard a business partner
that doesn’t have any level of regulation at all. We will give them full training in order to offer our product. They get full access to our online training suite in order to train all their staff. We can give them the correct posters for their front windows to advertise the product. They don’t need to be regulated. Being regulated allows them to offer longer term finance – you can only offer up to 11 months if you’re not regulated. Or if you want to offer interest-bearing finance, you have to be regulated.
‘Over the next couple of months we’ll be educating all our business partners that have been offering unregulated credit on what the FCA’s changes will be in July, to make sure they are ready.’
Visit: buyline.co.uk
Phillips wants all retailers to be able to offer consumer credit
Hugh Phillips
Another chance
Inclusive lending can boost retail conversions
‘With interest rates remaining high and mainstream credit tightening, UK retailers are under growing pressure at the checkout. Today, more consumers face challenges securing traditional credit, leaving retailers with rising basket abandonment and fewer completed sales. At a time when every conversion counts, inclusive lending has become not just beneficial but essential,’ says Andy Smith, Snap Finance UK ceo.
‘At Snap we have long argued that point-of-sale finance must be more inclusive to reflect real people’s lives.
Approximately 20.2million UK adults are financially underserved due to low credit scores, limited credit histories, fluctuating incomes or atypical employment patterns, cutting them off from traditional models. This leaves a significant portion without access to credit, with many consumers forced
into either abandoning their purchase or seeking riskier, or less regulated, forms of credit.
‘Second-line lending from Snap fills this gap responsibly and intelligently. Instead of relying solely on credit scores, Snap, in a digital-first payment ecosystem, uses proprietary technology to deliver advanced affordability assessment and risk-based pricing to understand the individual behind the application. The result is fair access to credit whilst offering retailers a route to convert customers who would otherwise drop out.
‘Our approach offers both 0% and interest-bearing options with multiple term lengths in one seamless journey, helping retailers say “yes” to more customers with a finance solution precisely matched to customers’ individual circumstances.’
For retailers, the impact is tangible, says Smith. By complementing prime lenders, declined customers get a second chance at approval, boosting sales and improving average order value in a seamless digital journey. This is helping retail partners approve more applications responsibly and retain high-value customers who might otherwise walk away.
‘Responsible innovation remains central to inclusive lending. At Snap, our proprietary affordability technology is the first in the UK to integrate Universal Credit and HMRC data into a fully digital income verification journey. Our Credit Strategy’s Best Use of Technology 2024 award-winning Income Portal combines multi-bureau data with Open Banking to assess affordability beyond credit scores alone. This enables faster, more accurate, responsible decisions whilst ensuring retailers can offer inclusive finance without compromising on regulatory expectations
‘Inclusive lending is essential to ensure retailers maintain a strong customer base. Second-line finance acts as a shock absorber, supporting shoppers as they make their spending decisions while helping retailers maintain volume. Today, inclusive lending matters more than ever, not just for conversions at checkout but for supporting a more inclusive, resilient retail landscape.’
Visit: snapfinance.co.uk
Andy Smith, Snap ceo
How many customers might you be unintentionally excluding?
adults in the UK have di culty accessing credit from mainstream lenders.
We o er a second chance to customers that traditional lenders leave behind. By complementing prime lenders, Snap broadens customer access and drives meaningful sales growth.
Leveraging proprietary technology, Snap's advanced a ordability assessment and risk-based pricing help retailers say 'yes' to more customers — with finance precisely matched to individual circumstances.
The full journey
Support is tailored and works around a retailer’s business
When a consumer chooses to spread the cost of a purchase, the experience they receive reflects directly on the retailer and its brand. That’s why the partner behind the finance matters.
‘At V12 Retail Finance, onboarding isn’t the end of the journey: it’s the beginning of a partnership. Once integration is complete and you’re live, our focus moves to what really drives value day to day: responsive support, streamlined processes and a relationship that gives your business and your teams confidence when offering finance,’ says Andrew Phillips, V12 Retail Finance md.
‘Our partners consistently tell us that what sets V12 apart is the experience after onboarding. From the very first application, they’re supported by people who understand the pace and pressures
of modern retail. They’re never left to figure things out alone. Our specialist teams stay hands-on to help them deliver finance journeys that work for their customers and their colleagues.
‘Whether it’s training, adapting processes to meet Consumer Duty expectations, or reviewing performance with your account manager, we work with you to keep finance both compliant and commercially effective.’
Going live with V12 isn’t a destination: it’s a starting point, says Phillips. Its commitment is to stand beside every retailer it works with, helping them deliver brilliant customer experiences while staying confident in their regulatory obligations.
‘Every retailer is different, so our support is tailored and works around
their business. This includes dedicated account management for performance reviews, optimisation and day-to-day support; regulatory and compliance refreshers to keep teams aligned with Consumer Duty; specialist introducer oversight guidance to maintain good customer outcomes, and excellent customer care.’
‘Retailers want a partner who’s accessible, proactive and genuinely invested in their success. That’s why we stay closely connected, offering insight, support and solutions long after integration is complete. Everything we provide is designed to help retailers deliver a smooth, transparent and positive customer experience. That includes: clear and simple processes a team can understand and explain confidently; fast decisions that support seamless customer journeys; transparent communication around finance options, and ongoing optimisation as businesses evolve,’ says Elliot Barlow, V12 retail sales director.
‘Choosing V12 means choosing more than a finance product. Retailers are choosing a long-term partner with the experience, regulatory understanding and people-first approach to help businesses thrive. We work to support their goals and help ensure their customers receive the experience they expect long after the conversion.’
Visit: v12retailfinance.com
Seamless customer journeys are key
Consumers’ experiences reflect directly on the retailer
Evolving and adapting
Members are free to choose their level of involvement in group initiatives
For nearly half a century, the Metro Group has evolved and adapted to meet the demands of a constantly changing marketplace. As a flooring buying group, its primary aim is to secure the most competitive prices and terms from more than 25 trusted suppliers. This enables members to offer highperforming products while maintaining strong profit margins.
Over time, the group has grown into a diverse network of independent retailers, ranging from single-owner businesses to companies with multiple locations. Maintaining independence remains a key priority, with members free to choose their level of involvement in group initiatives. This flexible approach ensures they can benefit from group advantages while retaining full control
over their own operations. Members can benefit from exclusive rebates and also a dedicated, but optional, BUPA health scheme, for example.
The Central Ordering Service provides a valuable solution for members who may not have direct accounts with suppliers. By placing orders through Metro, they can quickly and easily access a wider range of products. Often, a call to Metro House is all that’s needed, and in many cases this has helped members establish new supplier accounts.
Another significant benefit is the optional CarpetFirst own-label brand. With the growing influence of online competition, many retailers recognise the importance of branding with dedicated display stands, sampling and POS. Since the mid-1990s, CarpetFirst
has proven to be an effective way for Metro members to strengthen their market presence.
Metro’s marketing and merchandising service has been refined over the past three decades and stands out for its fully tailored approach. Recognising that every retailer has unique requirements, the service offers access to a wide range of customised marketing solutions. Members also receive an annual group contribution of £600 plus VAT, which can be used toward any marketing project. From initial design through to production and installation, the dedicated team works closely with each member to deliver exactly what they need.
The group is currently seeking new members across various parts of the UK. Tel: 01204 393 539
The team also manufactured and fitted a 30-year anniversary sign for Gray’s Carpets in Warminster, Wiltshire
Metro pattern book stand
The new CNC-cut signage manufactured and fitted by the marketing and merchandising team for Carpet Style in Nottingham
Cornerstone
Greendale was created to empower retailers with collective buying power
For more than six decades, Greendale Carpets & Flooring has stood as a cornerstone of the UK’s independent retail landscape. Established in 1962, this unique, not-for-profit, member-owned cooperative was born from a visionary goal: to empower local independent retailers with the collective buying power of a national giant. Today, Greendale has grown from a small group into a nationwide association of over 100 independent specialists, ensuring that high-street expertise remains competitive against large retail multiples.
‘The Greendale brand is more than a label: it is an aspirational interior mark backed by a rigorous selection process. For a carpet to carry the Greendale name, it must meet the highest manufacturing standards and be produced in an ethical, fair-trade environment. This commitment to quality is supported by a purposebuilt warehouse in Herefordshire, which holds up to 2,800 rolls of carpet, ensuring swift delivery and exclusive ranges that aren’t available online,’ says Eamonn Prescott, Greendale chief executive.
‘Greendale’s diverse portfolio caters to every aesthetic and functional need. The collection features: Wool Classics: high-performance options such as the 80/20 wool twist and Moda, a bestselling 100% wool loop pile in natural tones; Contemporary iD Carpets: a newer, trendled sub-brand focusing on flair and fashion, including textures like flatweaves,
sisal and plush Saxonies such as Allure; Specialised Labels: from the premium Platinum label to the budget-conscious Nice Price range, there is a solution for every market.’
Sustainability is at the heart of Greendale’s Green Agenda. The group has invested in solar technology to power its head office and warehouse, while actively diverting nearly 20tonnes of waste from landfill annually through recycling projects and partnerships with
UK Sustainable Flooring Alliance. By choosing Greendale, customers support a business model that prioritises people and the planet over corporate profit.
‘Retailers join Greendale to combine independent autonomy with massive group buying power. They benefit from exclusive ranges, lower pricing, ethical sourcing, a dedicated UK distribution hub and a supportive cooperative designed to maximise their margins.’
Visit: greendalecarpets.co.uk
Greendale’s diverse portfolio caters to every aesthetic and functional need
Greendale’s purpose-built warehouse in Herefordshire
For a flawless finish
Preparation and the correct materials are key
‘Given the premium associated with LVT and customers’ high expectations for finished results, it is very useful to know how to ensure a flawless finish when installing them. A long-lasting, visually attractive flooring finish when installing luxury vinyl tiles or planks involves following the basic principles of subfloor preparation, as well as taking precautions to avoid common causes of floor failure. Careful product selection at each stage of the process will also help optimise the installation,’ says Neil Sanders, F Ball technical director
‘A smoothing compound should be applied over the subfloor to create a perfectly smooth base for the receipt of floorcoverings and ensure that the visual appearance of an installation is not compromised by imperfections in the subfloor showing through. Before applying a smoothing compound, the first step in any flooring installation should be to check that the subfloor is suitably sound, smooth and dry. Any laitance and contaminants should be mechanically removed.’
A moisture test should be conducted to determine if the subfloor is dry enough to receive the flooring. Where Relative Humidity levels are higher than 75%, a moisture management solution will be required to prevent moisture
attacking flooring adhesives and causing resilient floorcoverings to blister and lift, potentially ruining the appearance of the installation. The usual solution for suppressing excess subfloor moisture is the application of a liquid waterproof surface membrane.
The subfloor needs to be primed. Primers promote adhesion between the subfloor and the smoothing compound applied over it. Applied over absorbent subfloors, they also stop the unacceptably rapid drying of smoothing compounds, which can result in insufficient strength build-up and a reduction in the open time or wet edge of the smoothing compound.
‘Another benefit of priming is reducing pinholing: small holes in the smoothing compound that have the appearance of pinholes or blisters, caused by the slow escape of air from absorbent surfaces as the smoothing compound cures,’ says Sanders.
‘To adhere the LVT to the smoothing compound, pressure-sensitive adhesives, such as Styccobond F46, are usually the best choice. They form an instant grab upon contact, so installers don’t need to worry about tiles or planks sliding about when they are working, making them ideal for installations with intricate designs or patterns.’
Styccobond F46 is part of F Ball’s System LVT range, which is comprised of waterproof surface membranes, primers, smoothing compounds and adhesives that, used correctly and in combination, are guaranteed by F Ball to result in an aesthetically pleasing floor finish that lasts the lifetime of the installation.
The range also features pressuresensitive adhesives with a variety of other specialist attributes, including moisture tolerance and the ability to hold floorcoverings firmly in place in areas exposed to extreme temperature fluctuations from -20degC to 60degC.
‘It is highly recommended that contractors always check the compatibility of particular floorcoverings and adhesives. To do this, you can consult the floorcovering manufacturer’s guidelines. Alternatively, F Ball’s Recommended Adhesives Guide (RAG) lists adhesives recommended for use with more than 6,000 floorcoverings produced by over 200 manufacturers. The guide is available as a free app or a printed booklet. An interactive version can also be found on the F Ball website.
Alternatively, contractors can contact the technical service department, from 8.30am–5pm, Monday to Friday, for advice on adhesive compatibility.’ Visit: f-ball.com
Six stunning colours, a variety of laying patterns and the authenticity of real wood Tapestry
Durable parquet LVT for modern homes
New chapter
Sunday opening is designed to provide greater opportunities to retailers
This year’s INDX National Flooring Show opens a new chapter for the exhibition: Sunday opening. After extended discussions, the event will welcome retailers to Cranmore Park, Solihull on a Sunday for the first time.
The move from Monday–Tuesday to Sunday–Monday is designed to provide independent retailers with greater flexibility and a more convenient buying experience, and follows the success of Sunday opening enjoyed by The Flooring Show when it switched several years ago.
‘We successfully introduced the show to the INDX portfolio in 2024, and the independent retail sector has been quick to support it. The new weekend option for 2026 will create an even stronger environment for successful business to take place,’ says Jane Bartlett,
Cranmore Park director of events. All retailers are welcome to explore the latest innovations in carpets, rugs, laminates, woods, vinyl, LVT, underlays and accessories, and benefit from free
admission and onsite parking; free tea and coffee, barista options and onsite farm-to-fork catering; and an informal drinks reception on Sunday afternoon. Visit: indxshows.co.uk
WHO ARE WE?
We further the interests of our members by promoting excellence in the fields of Carpet, Laminate, LVT, Naturals, Sheet Vinyl and Timber fitting and an understanding and awareness of British Standards Codes of Practice. NICF, along with the CFA, co-founded FITA*.
Membership gives clients assurance of quality workmanship
Use of NICF logo — promote yourself as a quality installer
FREE NICF website listing — helps to gain work opportunities
FREE Technical Advice and Business Support Help Lines
15% OFF all FITA* Standard Training Courses and Workshops: Improve your existing skills, learn to fit new flooring types, learn new fitting techniques and reduce the number of complaints
Discounts on tools and workwear
FREE use of the NICF Guide to Domestic Flooring
FREE annual magazine subscription to The Stocklists, Interiors Monthly and Contract Flooring Journal
Alternative Flooring will return to the show
national institute of carpet & floorlayers
Feel at home
Innovation, quality, comfort and strong retail partnerships take centre stage
Visitors to this year’s INDX National Flooring Show can expect a warm welcome from Abingdon Flooring, which will focus on innovation, quality, comfort and strong retail partnerships.
‘The stand will showcase a curated selection of ranges that combine standout style with dependable performance, demonstrating how thoughtful design, trusted manufacturing and retailer support help customers truly feel at home with their flooring choices,’ says Charlotte Coop, Abingdon Flooring head of marketing.
‘From practical family-friendly carpets to design-led luxury LVT, engineered wood and vinyl flooring, Abingdon continues to develop collections that meet changing interior trends while delivering the reliability retailers need.’
Among the featured carpet ranges is Knightsbridge Berber, a heavyweight addition to the Stainfree portfolio. Combining Pure Elegance softness with Rustique’s tri-colour yarn for visual depth, the dense four-ply twist construction offers a contemporary Berber-inspired finish, blending durability with distinctive texture. Fully bleach-cleanable and backed by a 12-year wear warranty, it is designed for heavy domestic and light commercial spaces, with widths up to 5m and a palette of natural tones.
The Velvet Dreams and Seduction ranges from the Love Story collection deliver luxurious Saxony-style softness and an indulgent underfoot experience. Made from 100% polyester yarn, these carpets feature a dense, velvety pile that combines comfort with elegance,
perfect for bedrooms and relaxation areas. Both ranges are bleach-cleanable, backed by a 15-year wear warranty, and available in a curated palette of warm neutrals and accent shades.
Hard flooring will take centre stage with the new Simply Smooth LVT parquet ranges, Mosaic and Tapestry. Inspired by traditional wood block flooring, these collections offer intricate, decorative designs with the practical benefits of modern LVT. Durable, easy to maintain and visually striking, they allow home owners to create distinctive interiors, while retailers can offer a high-quality, design-led solution.
‘We will also give visitors an exclusive preview of a new textured loop style in the Stainfree collection, combining its signature practicality with a fresh, contemporary look. Retailers will be among the first to see how this latest innovation enhances the Stainfree range, reinforcing its reputation for durable, family-friendly carpets,’ says Coop.
‘Across all collections, features such as stain-resistant fibres, easy-fit fleece backing and UK manufacturing underscore Abingdon Flooring’s commitment to products retailers can recommend with confidence. Visitors to stand P550 can explore the collections in detail, speak with the Abingdon team, and discover how the company continues to combine quality, comfort, and dependable support, ensuring customers truly feel at home with Abingdon Flooring.’
Visit: abingdonflooring.co.uk
Knightsbridge Berber in Dusty Fossil
Seduction in Candlelight
Tapestry in Chestnut
Inspiring showcase
Associated Weavers will debut carpet alongside its expanded LVT offer
Associated Weavers is set to deliver an inspiring showcase of the latest developments in carpets and LVT, highlighting innovation, performance and style across the flooring sectors.
In carpets, Associated Weavers will unveil Aquarius, an addition to its Invictus collection. Designed as a more luxurious, heavyweight Saxony construction, Aquarius builds on the success of the popular Aries and Taurus ranges. It is available in a palette of 10 colours and features a delustered matte finish, offering a sophisticated, contemporary aesthetic suited to modern interiors.
Further strengthening the Invictus line-up, two of its most successful ranges – Cassius and Darius – are set to receive an updated colour bank. This refresh, scheduled for June, will enhance design flexibility and ensure the collections remain aligned with evolving interior trends.
Also debuting is Holmfirth, which
joins alongside Harrogate and Coniston Continuing the focus on quality and comfort, Holmfirth is another heavyweight Saxony, engineered to provide both durability and a soft, premium feel underfoot: designed for busy homes where performance is just as important as appearance.
The company will also highlight a comprehensive LVT offering. This includes the established Maximus and Primus ranges, as well as the Ultimus collection, launched in November 2025. Positioned as a premium option, Ultimus features a 0.7mm wear layer, delivering exceptional durability and making it suitable for high-traffic environments, without compromising on design.
With more than 225 POS stands already in the marketplace, Associated Weavers’ LVT portfolio continues to perform exceptionally well, reflecting strong demand and ongoing confidence in the category.
‘This year’s INDX National Flooring Show promises to be an unmissable event, offering visitors valuable insight into the latest product innovations and commercial opportunities within the flooring industry,’ says the company.
Visit: associated-weavers.co.uk
Heritage Oak Taurus
Delight
Likewise Floors will show new POS, carpets, rugs and matting
Likewise Floors is delighted to return to INDX National Flooring Show, showcasing its new ranges on stand P370. With a strong focus on supporting independent flooring retailers, it will be highlighting a wide range of in‑store POS solutions alongside debut collections, offering fresh ideas and opportunities for every retailer.
The carpet portfolio will see a vast array of introductions, including a new family of polyester soft touch ranges designed to deliver high performance and low maintenance without compromising on a luxurious, soft underfoot feel. Ardennes Fusion, a 1/10th gauge twist created for busy modern homes, offers durability, style and everyday practicality. Completing the collection is Velvet Embrace, a value range created to prove comfort, style and affordability can go hand in hand.
Adding natural charm to the showcase, Likewise Floors will also present the Cotswold wood flooring collection. With warm, inviting tones and detailed finishes, Cotswold is a timeless flooring offer that instantly updates living spaces. Its natural warmth and rich colour palette make Cotswold a versatile choice for both modern and traditional interiors, enhancing any room with character and understated elegance.
Floors by Lewis Abbott is the premium carpet portfolio distributed exclusively by Likewise Floors. It will be introducing the Sisal Collection in three designs in the most popular shades, and Persuasion, a flat weave 10% wool/90% polypropylene companion product to the existing Herringbone and Paradise, in three different designs in five colours.
Among the 100% wool ranges, the recently launched Nickleby, a chunky loop in two designs; Middlemarch, a 1/10th gauge carpet in two designs;
and Secret Garden, two designs in two colours and a two ply yarn will also be on show.
Likewise Rugs & Matting will also shine a spotlight on rugs and matting products with eco‑friendly options, featuring products made with more sustainable materials and responsible choices: created for customers looking for great design with a lighter footprint, without compromising on durability or everyday practicality.
Email: enquiries@likewisefloors.co.uk
Nickleby
Above: Endless Affection Above left: Cotswold
Leading the way
Supporting independent retailers has always been at the heart of SMG
SMG works with independent retailers of all sizes, offering support that helps businesses grow while allowing owners to stay firmly in control. Members run their stores their own way, but benefit from a range of commercial, marketing and business support advantages.
‘Retailers choose SMG because we protect their independence while giving them access to strong discounts, rebate schemes and promotions from a wide mix of approved suppliers,’ says Linda Thomas, SMG head of group operations.
‘Our Central Purchasing Scheme also means that members can buy from approved suppliers even if they don’t hold a direct account.’
Alongside competitive terms with leading flooring manufacturers, SMG gives members the opportunity to sell Pure branded products, without the need for a full store overhaul. In addition to the Pure Carpets & Flooring brand, SMG now offers a tailored rebranding service if the retailer would like that option, handling the bespoke artwork and supplying all POS materials needed. The retailer is completely free to brand however they wish: SMG supports their independence.
Representing more than 470 retail outlets across the UK, SMG continues to strengthen its flooring proposition while expanding its wider business support offering. Members can now access additional product categories including lighting, occasional furniture and other complementary ranges to enhance link‑selling opportunities.
‘Being part of SMG creates real opportunities to increase your profit, without changing a thing you do, as well as giving increased resilience when markets are tougher,’ says Thomas. ‘From access to a wide supplier base and new product areas, to a strong marketing
support package, we help retailers create an identity and offer that’s right for them.’
Supporting independent retailers has always been at the heart of SMG. By combining collective buying power with practical business support, the group helps members stay competitive, even in today’s challenging market conditions.
At INDX National Flooring Show, SMG will be previewing and demonstrating a new website and member portal, launching later this year, as well as introducing a selection of new products and suppliers on stand P460.
Visit: smg-group.co.uk
The group has revamped its website
SMG members have more than 470 retail outlets across the UK
Carpet Barn’s POS
Five alive
Carpet and engineered wood debuts will be on show
For generations, Victoria Carpets and Hugh Mackay have been trusted names in British flooring, defined by craftsmanship, quality and enduring style. This year at INDX National Flooring Show the brands will be showcasing their latest collections.
Hugh Mackay will introduce Wilton Legacy, an addition to the man-made family featuring stunning woven-effect
patterns. With 16 carefully curated colourways, from the classic Houndstooth to the natural warmth of subtle plaids, on-trend animal prints have been introduced for the more daring customer wishing to make a statement. The 4m Wilton Legacy is backed by a 12-year wear warranty.
Victoria Carpets will be shining a spotlight on three new EasiCare
ranges. Velvet Impressions is a luxuriously soft 100% polyester twist, offering a underfoot feel best described as sumptuous, with a 15-year wear warranty across 12 elegant shades.
Heather Impressions is set to bring earthy, nature-inspired tones to a hardwearing polypropylene twist, designed for busy family homes.
First Impressions has had a fresh recolour and is now available in 22 enchanting and characterful shades.
All three come with Victoria’s new Flexi-Fit fleece backing, created to make installation a breeze and the products more luxurious under foot.
Victoria Design Floors will be showcasing its Victorious engineered wood collection, a range that brings the authentic warmth and beauty of real wood to any space. Four products will be introduced and will be on display.
All will be revealed on stand P190, and the Victoria and Hugh Mackay teams can’t wait for the opportunity to show visitors everything in person. Visit: myvictoria.co.uk hughmackay.co.uk
Carpet and engineered wood introductions will be on show
INDX National Flooring Show ,
ABINGDON FLOORING
Abingdon Flooring will showcase a curated selection of ranges that combine standout style with dependable performance, demonstrating how thoughtful design, trusted manufacturing and retailer support help customers truly feel at home with their flooring choices. The Knightsbridge Berber, Velvet Dreams and Seduction carpet ranges will take centre stage alongside the Mosaic and Tapestry LVT.
Visit: abingdonflooring.co.uk
ASIATIC
Asiatic is set to launch a collaboration with Made this spring, offering more choice for the design-conscious customer. The collection complements the current Made range with a curated colour palette, allowing consumers to create a home as unique as they are. The range is influenced by current trends – including bold, colourful geometrics for modern homes – alongside patterns and textures inspired by retro design.
Visit: asiatic.co.uk
ALTERNATIVE FLOORING
Leading British flooring brand Alternative Flooring will proudly showcase its award-winning collections at INDX National Flooring Show. Discover 10 inspiring new designs – from bold stripes and innovative faux materials to luxurious wools – including Echo-CoRE, the UK’s first fully recyclable carpets, rugs and runners for the home, designed to set a new standard in sustainable, stylish flooring.
Visit: alternativeflooring.com
ASSOCIATED WEAVERS
Associated Weavers is set to deliver an inspiring showcase of the latest developments in carpets and LVT, highlighting innovation, performance and style across the flooring sector. INDX National Flooring Show visitors will see additions to carpet – including Aquarius, Holmfirth and the recoloured Cassius and Darius – alongside its comprehensive LVT offering. Pay a visit to see what else is on offer.
Visit: associated-weavers.co.uk
BALTA FLOORCOVERINGS
Balta Floorcoverings is bringing fresh energy and Britishmade quality to INDX National Flooring Show this May. Visitors can expect a showcase of new collections designed to combine softness, style and everyday practicality, created with today’s retailers and homeowners in mind. The team will be on hand throughout the show to discuss the ranges, share insights and explore opportunities. Come and say hello at stand P540.
Visit: baltafloorcoverings.co.uk
CORMAR CARPET COMPANY
Cormar Carpet Company is delighted to be attending the INDX National Flooring Show this year, showcasing its award-winning product portfolio alongside a selection of exciting new ranges, including the recently relaunched Natural Berber Twist range from its popular wool twist collection.
Visit: portal.cormarcarpets.co.uk
CAUSEWAY CARPETS
Causeway Carpets’ refreshed Nature Core and Nature Earth styles will be on display at the show, with five new colours added to the tufted loop pile carpets made with 100% British wool. Nature Core features a classic level loop pile in a chunky four-ply yarn that gives a distinct rustic charm, while Nature Earth’s ribbed texture in the same yarn captures the handcrafted aesthetic of traditional weaving.
Visit: causewaycarpets.com
LIKEWISE
Likewise is delighted to return to INDX National Flooring Show showcasing its exciting new ranges. With a strong focus on supporting independent flooring retailers, it will be showcasing a wide range of in-store POS solutions alongside exciting new collections, offering fresh ideas and opportunities for every retailer.
Email: enquiries@likewisefloors.co.uk
INDX National Flooring Show
MASTERPIECE
MasterPiece will showcase developments to its established measuring, planning, estimating and sales support software. Recent updates include product sets being loaded from suppliers to streamline quoting; integration with Xero once a job is accepted; improved reminders and followups, and flexible flooring-specific diary works with the Part Fits facility; and the capacity to handle multi-day and multi-fitter events, with durations automatically estimated.
Visit: masterpiece-system.com
SMG
As well as promoting the extensive benefits of SMG membership to Independent retailers, the group will showcase a new interactive portal and new product opportunities at INDX National Flooring Show. Each new initiative is designed to give members even more tools to maximise their product offer, increase link selling opportunities and increase their profit.
Visit: smg-group.co.uk
PENTHOUSE CARPETS
Penthouse Carpets has been a part of Britain’s rich textile heritage since 1972. Its success depends on its customers being as happy with its carpets as it is. It is passionate about designing and crafting beautiful high-quality floorcoverings that set the benchmark for style, comfort and durability. Penthouse quality, naturally.
Visit: penthousecarpets.co.uk
VICTORIA CARPETS / HUGH MACKAY
For generations, Victoria Carpets and Hugh Mackay have defined British flooring through craftsmanship and enduring style. Discover their new launches at INDX National Flooring Show, including Hugh Mackay’s Wilton Legacy, three Victoria EasiCare ranges which now include its new Flexi-Fit backing, and Victorious engineered wood. Visit stand P190 to experience timeless design, innovation and quality, brought together for modern living.
Visit: myvictoria.co.uk
Exhibitors
Now’s
the time to plan your visit
Abingdon Flooring
Alternative Flooring
Artisan
Asiatic London
Associated Weavers
Axminster Carpets
Balta
Bostik
Brintons Carpets
CPS Group
Causeway Carpets
Cavalier Carpets
Coretec
Cormar Carpet Company
Design Floors
FITA
Fibre Flooring
Floorify
Flooring One
Gooch Oriental Carpets
Headlam Brands
Hugh Mackay
ITC Natural Luxury Flooring
Innovate Recycle
Interfloor
Invictus
J2 Flooring
Kaindl
Lamett
Lano
Likewise Floors
Mastercraft Rugs Collection
Masterpiece Systems
NICF
Penthouse Carpets
Premier Flooring Distribution
Rama Rugs
SMG
Simply Smooth
UK Sustainable Flooring Alliance
Ulster Carpets
Vintage & Modern
Victoria Carpets
Westex Flooring
Woodpecker
WoolSafe
Abingdon Flooring
Likewise
Invictus SMG
Point of Sale
Natural Impressions
Available in a curated palette of 10 timeless tonal shades, this collection offers both resilience and elegance.
Available to order now
Universe
Milan will again become the centre of the design world with thousands of participants at Rho and across the city. Visit: salonemilano.it; fuorisalone.it
Cattelan Italia will expand Castello Lagravinese Studio’s Ruby armchair with a sofa
Molteni&C will present its 2026 outdoor collection as the Responsive Nature installation by Elisa Ossino Studio at Via Senato
Atmosphera’s Bliss collection, designed by Boatto Martino Studio, was created to celebrate the harmony between comfort and landscape and will be unveiled at the gioiAtelier showroom on Via Melchiorre Gioia
Laboratorio Paravicini has partnered with designer Natalia Criado to create a new collection: Metalia, which will be unveiled in Via Nerino as part of 5VIE. The collaboration brings together hand-painted ceramics and sculptural metal pieces in a project that reimagines the ritual of the table.
Paco, Talenti Home’s modular sofa range, is defined by generous lines and soft, flowing forms, with balanced volumes that create a contemporary, welcoming and distinctive aesthetic
Stepvi’s Via dell’Orso showroom will host A Softer World, a living textile installation created in partnership with Swedish textile artist Alfhild Külper
Besana Carpet Lab and Gupica will combine in Via Cesare Correnti, with the Traccia flooring and Bambù lamp collection
Japanese design studio Medum will present Light is Shadow in Tortona at Back12, inviting visitors to experience light and darkness as equally valuable, offering a space for reflection, imagination and sensory engagement
Roberto Cavalli Home Interiors’ Mediterranean Heritage collection will include the Eivissa armchair
Jumbo Collection’s 2026 debutants will include Rivoli
Look into Nature will present Igusa, the reed traditionally used for tatami mats, on furniture
Salone del Mobile.Milano/Fuorisalone
and
Edition’s Lama sees a cut, sharp and immediate, sliced into the white core and ‘asserts itself as a revealing act’
Carpet
CPRN’s Pedro sofas and seating expands the company’s fabric range and interprets the concept of contemporary comfort through a sculptural structure in glossy lacquered solid mahogany
ClassiCon will debut its first modular sofa: Soft Stone Sofa, which has 11 modules
Kartell will see new designs sit alongside renewed icons
a collaboration with Barber Osgerby, Kartell’s first major new designer partnership in several years
Solidified returns for its second year, at Via Carlo Farini, with designers from Belgium, Denmark, Ecuador, France, Germany and The Netherlands, including Fortheform
American designer Stephen Burks and Roche Bobois reunite to add Catalina to its outside offer
The Isola Design Festival will celebrate its tenth anniversary with events across the area
FITTER
STAGE 1 — INITIAL ENTRY
Entrants must complete a questionnaire giving the most full and accurate answers possible. Entries will be evaluated by a panel of judges and the top 12 fitters will progress to the Semi-Final practical trials.
STAGE 2 — SEMI-FINAL PRACTICAL TRIALS
Practical trials are on Tuesday 23 / Wednesday 24 / Thursday 25 June 2026 at the InstallerSHOW, Birmingham NEC (4 fitters each day). The top 5 Semi-Finalists will progress to the Finals.
STAGE 3 — FINALISTS’ BRIEFING DAY
Scheduled for July 2026 (date TBC). Provides Finalists with a summary of what will be required in the Finals, plus details for a “Judges Challenge” task to produce an item to be judged at the Finals.
STAGE 4 — FINALS
Takes place on Sunday 20 and Monday 21 September 2026 at the The Flooring Show, Harrogate.
PLEASE NOTE
You do NOT need to be an NICF member to enter. Applicants must be 18 years or over on 30.04.26. NICF Council members and previous Carpet Fitter of The Year winners are excluded from entering. Deadline for entry is midnight on 30.04.26.
The Fitter of The Year Carpet Competition 2026 is kindly sponsored by
national institute of carpet & floorlayers
HOSTED BY
The Flooring Show South
New addition
This month will see TFSS take its place in the flooring calendar
The UK flooring industry is set to welcome an addition to its trade calendar with the launch of The Flooring Show South, on 15–16 April at Sandown Park, Surrey.
Building on more than 60 years of success in Harrogate, the new southern edition has been created to bring the very best of the industry closer to retailers, contractors and specifiers across the south of England. The event offers a focused platform designed to make sourcing products, meeting suppliers and building relationships easier and more efficient.
The launch is supported by six founding partners – Elements & Textures Inspirations, F Ball, Furlong Flooring, J2 Flooring, Kellars and Likewise Floors – alongside an exhibitor line-up including Abingdon Flooring, Balta, Brampton Chase, Coretec, Cormar Carpet Company, Headlam Brands, Karndean, Lecol, Tarkett, V4 Floors and Westex Carpets.
Exhibitors represent the full breadth of the flooring sector, spanning carpet, wood, LVT, underlay, tools, adhesives and accessories. Visitors can expect more than 200 leading brands under one roof, showcasing the latest collections, innovations and technologies shaping today’s market. From traditional carpets to LVT and engineered wood, the event will provide a comprehensive overview of the products driving growth across both residential and commercial sectors.
Beyond the exhibition floor, networking will also take centre stage. Visitors are invited to attend a drinks reception at 5pm on 15 April at the Parade Ring Networking Bar, located on the upper foyer next to the main exhibition hall. With stunning views overlooking the parade ring, this relaxed and informal gathering provides the perfect opportunity to connect with fellow retailers, suppliers and manufacturers.
In a market where face-to-face interaction remains key to building trust and securing business, The Flooring Show South is designed to offer a valuable opportunity to explore products first-hand, strengthen partnerships and gain insight into emerging trends, all within an accessible and business-focused setting. Visit: theflooringshow.com
TFSS builds on more than 60 years of success in Harrogate
Quickclick
Protect 4 types of flooring with 1 interchangeable glide system
Exclusive to Stroolmount
Carpet, wood, laminate or tiles: Quickclick gives long-term protection for them all. So when moving any furniture to a room with different flooring, just click in a protection glide for that floor type.
Quickclick protects your flooring
Chairs scraped back and forth wear down even the most resilient flooring. Quickclick, keeps flooring looking its best for much longer.
Quickclick protects your furniture
It minimises wear and tear, plus reduces stress on your chair and table legs.
Quickclick protects your ears
Noise is reduced up to 75%. So your dinner party needn’t be interrupted by unbearable screeching – or at least by the chairs!
Step byStep
1
2
3
Screw in a Quickclick base under each furniture leg.
Click a glide into the base. You’re now protected.
To swap a glide, click it out with a screwdriver and pop another one in.
Wood Carpet Tiled Anti-Slip
Roch Castle & Penrhiw luxury guest accommodation Pembrokeshire, Wales Available IN PACK OR IN BULK
Foundation for success
Proposte will be themed around Heritage Forward
The theme for the 33rd edition of Proposte on 5-7 May will be Heritage Forward. This has been chosen to emphasise how heritage – rooted in quality and research – is the foundation for future success: not merely a statement, but a commitment to building a valuable future together, based on passion, expertise and responsibility.
‘Proposte represents a heritage built over time, thanks to a rigorous selection process and a shared vision with exhibiting companies,’ says Marco Parravicini, Proposte president.
‘With Heritage Forward, we want to
reaffirm the value of our manufacturing legacy, projecting it toward the future challenges of the sector: technological innovation, responsibility and internationalisation. Quality remains our cornerstone, but it is through continuous evolution that we intend to strengthen the fair’s role in the global landscape.’
The show will see 87 exhibitors from 14 countries across four continents gather on the bank of Lake Como, representing the best furnishing fabrics, curtains, trimmings and wallcoverings.
Alongside long-standing exhibitors, some of which have participated since
the first edition, this year’s offering expands with eight new Italian companies: Fasac 1955, Indorama Ventures, Italreflexes, Nice-Gruppo Aurim, Paoletti Tessuti, Pontoglio 1883, Tecnofinish and Velvetex; the first participation of a Lithuanian company: Audejas; a new Belgian manufacturer: Manchoni by GSF; and the return of Edinburgh Weavers.
‘The 2026 edition confirms Proposte’s ability to attract highly qualified companies and strategic international markets. The growth in international participation and the entry of new companies demonstrate the vitality
Proposte will return to Villa Erba
Harris Tweed Hebrides
There will be 87 exhibitors from 14 countries
of the sector and the fair’s central role as a space for targeted networking and concrete business opportunities,’ says Massimo Mosiello, Proposte director.
The Heritage Forward concept will be expressed through the exhibition spaces, after leading contemporary interior architecture studio Cristina Celestino Studio was commissioned for the show. With its refined and distinctive language, CCS will interpret the edition’s theme through an interior design project involving the fair’s common areas.
‘This will mainly focus on the Ala Regina, which will once again play a central role in the exhibition route. The scenic Sala Esedra, overlooking the centuries-old gardens, will be transformed into a sophisticated lounge, designed to host business meetings and cultural and entertainment programming. The project will also extend to the fair’s cafes and the entrance portals to the exhibition areas, creating a coherent design vision that combines identity, comfort and quality
of experience,’ says Mosiello.
‘For Proposte, I imagined spaces capable of restoring centrality to the experience of meeting, through a language that dialogues with the architectural identity of Villa Erba and the textile tradition, reinterpreting them with a contemporary
EXHIBITORS
sensibility,’ says Cristina Celestino.
The collaboration between Proposte and Comocrea Interni will also continue, with the textile design for home furnishings event taking place on the same dates in the town.
Flanders Flooring Days will see a major revamp and a wider product mix when it returns for its fifth edition in May.
What began as exhibitors hosting buyers at their showrooms in the area around the Belgian city of Kortrijk, and then welcomed additional exhibitors to the Kortrijk Xpo centre, will now see showroom participants present a curated part of their collection at the centre alongside inviting visitors to discover the full range in the showrooms. A free shuttle service will connect the exhibition with the showrooms.
The 18-21 May event will also see ceramic tiles, wall and ceiling panels, steel materials and display systems added to flooring, as organisers look to ‘better reflect the evolving market’.
More than 100 brands will present their latest collections and innovations on the central exhibition floor at Kortrijk Xpo and in showrooms within a 40-minute radius. Decision-makers and
buyers from more than 75 countries come to discover new products, gain inspiration and build valuable connections in a unique setting.
Sustainability remains a key theme at Flanders Flooring Days. During the 2026 edition, the event will also host the closing event of Living Lab Carpet, an initiative that brings together the carpet value chain to address the challenge of carpets at the end of their life cycle. Living Lab Carpet is supported by VLAIO and Flanders Circular.
Over the past few years, partners within the Living Lab have explored concrete ways to extend the lifespan of carpets. The focus lies on repair, reuse and remanufacturing as alternatives to waste. During the closing event, visitors will discover practical solutions and innovative approaches that are already applicable in the sector today. Through interactive discussions and a Q&A session with the partners involved,
visitors will be able to exchange insights and explore the next steps towards a more circular flooring industry.
Alongside product innovation and sustainability, Flanders Flooring Days also highlights the sensory and emotional experience of materials.
In collaboration with Fedustria, the programme features a talk by Katja De Vos. Her lecture explores Our Brain Loves Wood, a study of the relationship between humans and materials by Professor Steven Laureys and Dr Steven Scholte of the neuroscientific research institute Neurensics. The research shows that the human brain responds more strongly and positively to interiors in which wood plays a prominent role.
For designers, specifiers and manufacturers the session offers valuable insights into how material choices contribute to a pleasant and sustainable living environment.
Visit: flandersflooringdays.com
Together
ACG members were out in force
ACG members returned to St George’s Park, Burton upon Trent for the buying group’s 2025 Platinum Event, where suppliers showcased their latest products, offers and POS. As well as the show, retailers were able to enjoy golf, a casino night and gala dinner on 13-14 March.
‘The event was again a great success, with attendance up for both the casino evening and the Platinum Supplier Show and gala dinner,’ says John Richardson, ACG group development manager.
‘Feedback from members and suppliers was overwhelmingly positive, with many
highlighting the relaxed and welcoming atmosphere as the perfect setting to socialise and do business. The exclusive on-the-day deals also delivered real value, offering attending ACG members meaningful savings for their businesses.’ Visit: acgcarpets.com
ABINGDON FLOORING
Abingdon Flooring showcased a versatile new carpet collection featuring seven plains and seven Berbers, all with wool-look textures in shades ranging from grey to beige, available in both Berber fleck and plain designs. The Allerdale and Langley ranges offer fleece backings in multiple widths, 5/32-gauge construction, and bleach-cleanability, with seven colour options. These ranges seamlessly complement the existing Wilburn and Country lines.
Visit: abingdonflooring.co.uk
BALL & YOUNG
At Ball & Young, Mark Townend, sales director announced the return of Blue Heaven underlay, available now in 9mm and 11mm options. The relaunched product strengthens its focus on luxury domestic underlays, offering reliable performance, strong thermal insulation and enhanced comfort. Blue Heaven is positioned to support increased demand across the domestic market.
Visit: ballandyoung.com
ASSOCIATED WEAVERS
Associated Weavers introduced Aquarius, part of its Invictus brand: a more luxurious, heavyweight Saxony version of the Aries and Taurus ranges. It is available in 10 colours with a delustered matte finish. The heavyweight Saxony Holmfirth was introduced, designed for durability and comfort, joining the family alongside Harrogate and Coniston. The Invictus Cassius and Darius have been updated with an enhanced colour bank, with the recolour set to take place in June.
Visit: associated-weavers.co.uk
BALTA
Balta expanded its core range with two new products in the Essentials Selection. Decor Twist (linked to Noble Twist), a 1/8th gauge twist in 11 colours, is perfect for everyday use. Decor Ultimate (linked to Ultimate Noble) offers tough durability in 12 colours. Additionally, Decor Saxony (linked to Ultimate Saxony) brings a soft touch, while Decor Loop (linked to Designer Style) rounds out the collection. Visit: baltafloorcoverings.co.uk
CAUSEWAY CARPETS
Causeway Carpets used the show to promote new POS and updated branding. Centre stage were introductions including Mayfair, crafted from 100% wool in four styles, each with five colourways, and updates to the popular Nature Core and Earth. Causeway previewed a new addition to its lineup, offering solid colours including earthy tones of Mocca, Sage and Mellow Yellow, in a 70/30 blend, each in 4m and 5metre widths, curated to give a warm, natural feel to homes.
Visit: causewaycarpets.com
CAVALIER CARPETS
Cavalier Carpets unveiled two woven Wiltons at the show: Seaham and Saltburn. Each have five designs and a broad range of colours, while offering patterned luxury. Zephyr, a soft polyester 78oz range is available in 12 earthy colours. ACG members could also enter a prize draw by leaving their business card.
Visit: cavaliercarpets.co.uk
NOT ALL BUYING GROUPS ARE CREATED EQUAL!
REBATES
ARE YOU RECEIVING ANNUAL REBATES FROM THE COMPANIES YOU DO BUSINESS WITH?
REGARDLESS OF THE SIZE OF YOUR BUSINESS ACG CAN RETURN SIGNIFICANT REBATES FOR DOING NOTHING DIFFERENTLY.
CORETEC
Coretec is rolling out a new gallery display initiative, with 100 units ordered nationwide. Select retailers are featuring these premium products, and Coretec has introduced a mobile showroom that brings gallery displays directly to retailers. The rollout is going well, giving customers a hands-on experience of Coretec’s premium flooring. Visit: coretecfloors.com
FURLONG FLOORING
Furlong Flooring introduced Bliss, a luxurious new Saxony carpet range designed to combine comfort, practicality and style. Made from 100% polypropylene, Bliss and Bliss Comfort offer a soft, cosy feel underfoot, designed for busy households. Available in 12 colours, the collection is versatile enough to use across homes, from bedrooms to living spaces. Visit: furlongflooring.com
CORMAR CARPET COMPANY
Award-winning British carpet manufacturer Cormar Carpet Company showcased its extensive product portfolio, including the recently relaunched Natural Berber Twist range. The collection has been refreshed with five new shades: Parchment, Limewood, Macaroon, Medlar and Troutbeck. Available in two luxurious pile weights, Elite and Deluxe, Natural Berber Twist features a distinctive Berber yarn that creates a flecked appearance with a rustic effect.
Visit: portal.cormarcarpets.co.uk
INTERFLOOR
Interfloor introduced the Floorfixx levelling system. This innovative solution uses brickwork as a dry alternative to screed, paired with acoustic benefits. Two versions are available: one for underfloor heating and one without. Premier Metals colour cards and gripper rods drew significant interest, and ACG members could enter a prize draw for a £250 voucher. The stand also featured Duralay, Sonixx and Gripperrods, showcasing a full range of premium underlay solutions.
Visit: interfloor.com
ITC NATURAL LUXURY FLOORING
ITC Natural Luxury Flooring introduced two new sisal styles: Sambrossa, a chunky weave in five colours and Montana, a basket weave in four colours. Retailers were also able to discover more about its machine-tufted faux silk carpets and its hand-woven ranges. ITC’s renowned craftsmanship brings tailored luxury to every home.
Visit: itcnaturalluxuryflooring.com
MASTERPIECE
MasterPiece showcased extensions to its established measuring, planning, estimating and sales support software. Product sets can be loaded from suppliers, eg ACG’s Smart Choice ranges, to streamline quoting; once a job is accepted there is an integration with Xero available, and payment records can be aligned between the two systems; improved reminders and followups and flexible diary works with the Part Fits facility, and handles multi-day and multi-fitter events.
Visit: masterpiece-system.com
LANO
Lano unveiled three signature ranges being offered to ACG members under the group’s own label offer: Smart Merlin/Lano Soft Distinction, Chic/Lano Decor and Elegante/Lano Sweet Elegance. All three qualities use the premium Eccelena two-ply yarn in 1/10th gauge constructions, with notably warm beige tones running through the collections, giving a premium look and feel. Visit: lano.com
PENTHOUSE CARPETS
Penthouse Carpets has been a part of Britain’s rich textile heritage since 1972. Its success depends on its customers being as happy with its carpets as it is. It is passionate about designing and crafting beautiful, high-quality floorcoverings that set the benchmark for style, comfort and durability. Penthouse quality, naturally.
Visit: penthousecarpets.co.uk
TELENZO
Telenzo impressed at the show with its vibrant all-wool collections, crafted from New Zealand wool and bursting with bright, cheerful colours. The Barbican range offers 12 fresh shades, backed by a five-year guarantee. Meanwhile, Chelsea remains a bestseller, with 14 colours in 100% wool.
Visit: edeltelenzocarpets.co.uk
VICTORIA CARPETS
At Victoria Carpets, Louis Portman, key account manager showed off its new ACG LVT collections: Horizon (plank, chevron, parquet) and Portrait and Landscape (plank, herringbone). He also teased a forthcoming Wilton range which includes three patterned and four tartan designs, alongside the four new EasiCare products from Victoria launching this Spring.
Visit: myvictora.co.uk
ULSTER CARPETS
Ulster Carpets showcased its new Natural Choice Blends range as well as previewing the upcoming Grange Wilton colours. With five nature-derived colours made from 100% wool in the carpet pile, Blends is the second tufted loop range within the Natural Choice Collection, which also includes Axminster and Wilton options. Set to launch later this year, UIster Carpets is introducing 10 new colours to the Grange Wilton range.
Visit: ulstercarpets.com
WESTEX
The show highlighted Westex’s exciting new ranges alongside its trusted favourites. It proudly featured the new Fine Westex Twist, Elysian Velvet Collection and Fired Earth ranges, presented alongside the ever-popular Ultima Twist and Westend Velvet collections. All are now available on Westex’s versatile single-range lecterns.
Visit: westexflooring.com
Delivering
FCE saw a large increase in visitors, who were ready to do business
With more than 80 exhibitors, an expanded floorplan, the debut of the Innovation Trail, and a more immersive look and feel – many brands created space for hands-on interaction and live demonstrations – all Furniture Component Expo needed was a lift in visitor numbers, preferably decisionmakers ready to do business.
And it delivered, with numbers up 11% (figures were not disclosed) and exhibitors commenting that they had the buyers they wanted.
From fittings to foams, fabrics to finishes, there was plenty for visitors to explore, with comfort technology, sustainable materials and automated manufacturing drawing particular interest from attendees keen to streamline production and reduce environmental impact.
Last month’s event saw the introduction of the Innovation Trail: 10 exhibitors, each presenting a product or concept pushing the boundaries of furniture component
design and making its debut at FCE. Organiser BFA’s judging panel spent time with each company, exploring the thinking behind their innovations and the potential impact on the market.
The Innovation Trail Winner was Comfortex, for its Softcure Cushion, ‘a beautifully engineered piece combining comfort, durability and sustainability’. The product impressed judges with both its technical sophistication and its relevance to the evolving needs of furniture manufacturers seeking
The show saw visitor numbers climb by 11%
more sustainable yet high-performance components.
Mobus Fabrics and Cirtex UK (Re-born, The Sustainable Manufacturer) shared a highly commended honour – Mobus for its continued advancement in fabric performance and aesthetics, and Cirtex for outstanding work transforming waste textiles into valuable new resources.
From the opening of the exhibition to the final conversations on the show floor, the spirit of FCE 2026 was one of opportunity. Visitors commented on the ease of connecting with suppliers and the relevance of the exhibitors’ offerings, while many exhibitors highlighted how the show attracted decision-makers ready to do business.
Supply chain resilience, sustainability and technological innovation were all central talking points, while new materials, digitised production workflows and environmentally conscious designs were among the dominant themes, mirroring the shifts shaping the global furniture market.
Apropa Machinery’s debuts included the Japanese technology polymer Air Mats, designed for babies’ mattresses due to its exceptional porosity, and recycled pineapple leaves as a natural alternative to felt.
Carpenter highlighted its Serene foam cushion, which has a ‘pneumatic feel’ and is not temperature sensitive. Initially introduced for mattresses, it is now available for upholstery.
Clockwork Components teamed with Leggett & Platt Home to display its motors for motion upholstery including the ST Glider, a fully adjustable recliner in terms of sitting position, which also has rotational capabilities and rocking motion.
Fibre Components made it three consecutive FCEs and attracted buyers keen to learn about its upholstery
products, while Handy debuted a 100% Shetland wool rosette for use in mattresses.
Peak Converters came to FCE26 with a different approach to previous years; instead of focusing on product, the aim was to highlight its partnership capabilities, stressing flexibility as a watchword in its production lines.
Peter Cook used the show to provide details of reopening its Long Point
showroom and teased four forthcoming partnerships, including a breathable glue.
Sedac demonstrated its sofa bed mechanisms, where the cushions stay on during bed use because they are fixed to the bed frame. Re-born found an appreciative audience for its efforts to recycle mattresses, and three-time exhibitor Wade Spring showcased its well-established range of pocket springs. Visit: fcexpo.co.uk
Tokyo Fabrics took home the prize for Best Shell Scheme stand
Working for the future
A roll-out of solar power and biomass facilities; ESG priorities that are evidencebased, and underpinning social commitments; provision of structured hands-on experience, and a sciencebased approach to product innovation have been recognised by this year’s Future of Furniture Awards.
The Excellence in Sustainability award was won by Whitemeadow, recognising a long-term strategy that includes a roll-out of solar power and biomass facilities, along with improvements to
packaging, ISO accreditations and investments in Electric Vehicles.
DFS Group was the winner of the Excellence in ESG Reporting award, having embedded sustainability more deeply across operations, using the ‘Sofa Cycle’ framework as the basis for its environmental strategy, established transparent reporting aligned with recognised frameworks to ensure its ESG priorities are evidence-based, and underpinning social commitments with its Everyone Welcome culture.
A cornerstone of its long-term skills strategy, Ercol’s apprenticeship programme secured the Excellence in Education award. The programme provides structured, hands-on experience across key departments of the business, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern production techniques, underpinned by wideranging engagement with schools and colleges.
Jacob Lane, Silentnight sustainability manager was named Sustainability Champion in recognition of his sciencebased approach to product innovation which aims to address furniture industry challenges around sustainability, and his role in developing a Net Zero plan, carbon product passports and annual carbon reports at the company.
‘These businesses are at the forefront of best practice in education and sustainability, and our panel of independent judges returned some very high scores across all categories. This year was an incredibly close competition, with all entrants putting forward some exceptional stories about the work they are doing. It is important to recognise and celebrate the work that will make our sector more sustainable, create social value and provide opportunities for the development of people working in our industry,’ says Phil Spademan, BFA md.
LtoR: Silentnight’s Jacob Lane; Ercol’s Ian Peers and Whitemeadow’s Nick Wilkinson and Dan Oscroft
Highlights
Biennial exhibition kbb Birmingham showed the latest in kitchen trends
The UK’s largest dedicated kitchens, bedrooms and bathrooms exhibition marked its 40th anniversary, attracting 16,000 visitors. The event welcomed 320 exhibitors across 26 categories from more than 20 countries.
‘I’m so proud to be celebrating four decades of kbb Birmingham as the industry’s meeting place for KBB professionals. It is truly inspiring to see our entire community come together at the show, connecting, collaborating and forging new relationships that drive progress across the sector. kbb Birmingham continues to shape the industry,’ says Sam Fisher, kbb Birmingham event director.
Visit: kbb.co.uk
The Impuls brand was debuted, offering German kitchens in a choice of four price points: from entry-level 16mm doors to premium 19mm options
Häcker took part in the show for the first time, and debuts included the Bristol kitchen in Blush Pink, a shade exclusive to the UK market
next125’s iconic Fireplace features the nx680 range in G925S mirror glass bronze and F815 oak with onyx, transforming the kitchen island into a design statement
Ca’ Pietra’s Lacock Limestone Tumbled finish offered a softer take on heritage looks
DTC showed its latest bedroom and kitchen hardware
Schüller’s 2026 range introduces a new colour option for the Matera range: sepia brown matt
LUCIA
Experience comfort and style with the Lucia, available in four luxurious fabrics, it reclines effortlessly with a gentle push back and features a tension handle for added control. Its sleek design and contemporary colours enhance any living space, adding elegance and sophistication. Perfect for unwinding, the Lucia Recliner blends functionality with aesthetic appeal.
Foundation
Service is not an add-on
‘I am immensely proud of the role our people play in supporting clients and their customers every single day. Service is not an add-on to what we do: it is the foundation of our business. Every scheme we design, claim we manage and conversation we have is guided by a simple commitment: to protect what matters to our clients’ customers and deliver support when it is needed most,’ says Martin Napper, Castelan Group ceo.
Castelan’s secure and insured schemes are built to give its retail partners’ customers complete confidence. It understands that when customers purchase protection products, they are placing trust not only in the policy but in the people standing behind it. ‘That is why we invest heavily in robust
systems, rigorous underwriting and clear, transparent processes. Security and reliability must be absolute. But protection alone is not enough. How we serve customers throughout their journey is what truly defines value,’ says Napper.
‘Outstanding service relationships sit at the heart of our approach. We work as an extension of our clients’ brands, representing them with professionalism, empathy and expertise. When a customer needs assistance, the experience should be seamless, supportive and reassuring.
‘From our extensive Furniture Care Network, boasting highly skilled technicians across the UK and a lead time of less than five days, to our efficient claims handling and insightful management information, we
consistently demonstrate a deep understanding of both retailer needs and consumer expectations.’
Over the past year, more than 100 new clients have chosen to work with Castelan. Napper says this is a powerful endorsement of the confidence businesses place in its ability to care for their customers and reflects its reputation for operational excellence, responsive service and a culture that puts people first.
‘I am also delighted that our commitment to responsible business was recognised through our Sustainability Award at the Excellence in Furniture Awards in January. Extending product life, enabling repair over replacement and helping customers resolve issues rather than discard goods are central to our philosophy. By supporting practical, sustainable outcomes, we play an active role in the circular economy while delivering meaningful value.
‘At Castelan, we measure success by the strength of our relationships and the trust we earn. Our promise is simple: secure protection, exceptional service and a partnership our clients can rely on,’ adds Napper.
Visit: castelangroup.com
Castelan POS
Regulated protection
How customer issues are handled is critical to brand health
For today’s retailers, the customer relationship does not end at the point of sale. Increasingly, it continues long after a product is delivered. When something goes wrong, the experience that follows often shapes how a brand is remembered far more than the original purchase itself.
In a retail landscape where reputation is hard earned and easily damaged, the way customer issues are handled has become a critical part of brand perception. One approach is to offer regulated protection products that provide customers with clear support and recourse if problems arise.
Guardsman UK’s focus has always been on helping retail partners protect their customers and, in turn, their brand reputation. A key part of that approach is ensuring that the protection products offered are regulated
and supported by robust processes.
Russell Philpott, Guardsman UK md says regulation should be seen less as a constraint and more as a foundation for trust. ‘Customers want reassurance that if something goes wrong, there is a fair and transparent process in place. A regulated product means there is clear protection for the customer and accountability within the system.’
Working within established regulatory structures, including oversight from bodies such as the Financial Conduct Authority and the Financial Ombudsman Service, ensures customers have access to support and independent review if needed. For retailers, this framework provides confidence that their customers and their reputation are protected.
‘Retailers need solutions that work operationally and commercially. A welldesigned protection programme should support sales performance while also reinforcing trust in the brand. There is sometimes a perception that regulated insurance products add complexity or limit commercial opportunity. Experience across the sector increasingly suggests
the opposite. When customers understand the protection being offered and trust the process behind it, they are often more comfortable making the purchase.
‘We have spent time working closely with our retail partners to better understand how protection products can support their goals around customer experience, reputation and long-term performance. That collaboration has helped shape how protection is presented and supported at store level.’
‘The role of regulation is not to dominate the conversation but to provide the framework that allows retailers to offer credible, trustworthy protection. For retailers navigating a competitive and reputation-sensitive market, ensuring customers feel supported after the sale may be one of the most valuable investments they can make,’ says Ryan White, Guardsman UK head of sales.
‘If you would like to understand how Guardsman UK protection insurance can drive improved performance, strengthen your customer proposition and protect your brand, let us have that conversation.’ Tel: 01235 444 701
When customers understand the protection being offered they are often more comfortable making the purchase
Russell Philpott, Guardsman UK md
Protecting our retailers... ..and their Customers
Customer-first protection
An insurance proposition designed to support your customers
Supporting retailer reputation Regulated insurance that reinforces trust and credibility
Commercially sound, not commercially restrictive
Achieve strong margins while offering protection customers understand
Clear, practical support for your teams
Providing straight forward training that works on the shop floor
A partner that listens
Direct conversations that ensures our support evolves around your needs
Best foot
Ensuring
that flooring is fit for purpose is vital
Companies need to be able to test the durability of their floorcoverings, as premature wear can prove costly in terms of complaints, product recalls and reputational damage.
SATRA has developed a method for testing different flooring to help determine how it will wear and how well it retains its appearance. This test involves the interaction between a moving shoe and the floorcovering, based on SATRA’s comprehensive gait research.
The SATRA STM 528 Pedatron provides an accelerated wear simulation under realistic conditions and can be used as an effective means of assessing the wear characteristics of flooring. It is applicable to many flooring surfaces and also hardware such as stair nosings.
The floorcovering is subjected to a cyclic walking action from a standard shoe, where the specimen rotates incrementally while the forepart of the shoe is in contact with the flooring. These individual footsteps are designed to replicate a mixture of walking in a straight line and turning a corner. The floorcovering under test rotates such that it completes a full 360deg rotation every 150 footfalls. It is visually assessed and a subjective assessment of wear and appearance retention is made.
For stair nosings, the floorcovering remains stationary during the test, with the footfall positioned to ensure that the centre forepart of the shoe strikes the nosing edge, representing either walking down or up the stairs. It is visually checked for any movement of the nosing insert and also to ensure if any damage or cracking of the nosing has occurred.
As well as checking flooring for wear, SATRA can use the STM 528 Pedatron to replicate wear on floorcoverings in order to assess slip resistance of worn products, and it can simulate wear in relatively short periods of time. As a result, it is able to provide an indication of the long-term effects of wear on the floor’s slip resistance. This is undertaken
in conjunction with the pendulum test EN 16165:2021 Annex C, with a test performed on a specific area of flooring after various numbers of footfalls: normally every 250,000.
STM 528 Pedatron use is valuable in assessing an existing product or a new floorcovering under development before it is released onto the market. Email: flooring@satra.com
Testing a floorcovering on the SATRA STM 528 machine using a cyclic walking action and a standard shoe
Change
Matt Gingell on using OMNIS to handle everything from custom orders and customer service to warehousing and delivery schedules
Material Things launched OMNIS Retail at its Portsmouth store two years ago and continues to grow with the help of Iconography’s unified system.
‘People in furniture said to me: “I’m told that Iconography make the best websites,” so we spoke to Iconography. We changed primarily because our Shopify website was very lacking. We’d started to outgrow what we had and looking back to the way we were doing things, it’s night and day,’ says Matt Gingell, Material Things sales director.
‘One major difference is we’ve converted from using emails to using the tasks module. Seeing a full history of interactions per order is so transparent, I love that aspect of it. It’s horrible getting a customer say: “Somebody said they’d call me back and they haven’t.” Having this information to hand means that anyone in the team can respond.
‘First and foremost, we want to understand the customer’s needs. Getting into the nitty-gritty, we grab a laptop, sit down with them and build the order together. We’ve uploaded all the relevant options to choose from so there’s a journey to follow, but we can also skip them as necessary. Custom options can be added to any product –we use that functionality a lot.
‘When things change, we can amend purchase orders without losing information. Waiting on customers to chase for updates normally ends in
cancellation, which costs us money.
OMNIS lets us easily check on purchase orders that haven’t been sent or acknowledged in a certain timeframe to prevent this.’
Switching to OMNIS has given Gingell greater understanding of the business’s stock position and made deliveries more organised. ‘Seeing what is on display versus free stock so we don’t have to go looking through the showroom or the warehouse has been great. If a customer cancels last minute, the stock doesn’t just vanish, it has to go somewhere, keeping
us accountable. For stocktake, it’s never been more accurate – it’s so refreshing.
‘On the journey planner we assign orders daily to a specific vehicle and log if the delivery is morning, afternoon or a set timeframe. It’ll also show any payments due, which is really important for ensuring we follow up before delivery.
‘OMNIS’ reporting has been invaluable. We get a clear and simple snapshot on the dashboard but can also drill down further into the data, whether that’s on my phone, my iPad or my laptop.’
Visit: iconography.co.uk/omnis
Matt Gingell and Georgia Card, Iconography marketing and client manager
Georgia Card and Mike Whitman, Iconography head of product
Matt Gingell, Material Things sales director and Lee Brayshaw, Iconography client support specialist
Together
Integrated retail technology is now a leadership tool
For many years retail technology has been viewed primarily as an operational necessity: systems were implemented to process transactions, manage stock and support day-to-day activity. But as the furniture and beds sector has become more complex, that perspective is changing. Today, the most successful retailers are not just using technology to run their operations, they are increasingly using it to lead them.
Leadership in modern retail is no longer driven by instinct alone. It is shaped by access to accurate, real-time information and the ability to act on it quickly. In an environment where margins are tight and customer expectations are high, the speed and quality of decision-making has become a defining competitive advantage.
‘This is where integrated retail technology comes into its own, as many retailers still operate with a collection of disconnected systems. Point of sale, inventory, delivery scheduling, finance and reporting tools often sit in silos, requiring manual reconciliation and delaying access to meaningful insight. While each system may perform its individual function, together they create friction. Data becomes inconsistent, reporting is delayed and leadership teams are left making decisions based on incomplete or outdated information. In contrast, retailers with fully
integrated systems operate with clarity,’ says Stephen Connolly, Ordorite ceo.
‘When every part of the business is connected, from showroom sales to warehouse activity and final delivery, leaders gain a single, reliable view of performance. They can see what is happening across every store, product category and department in real time.
‘This level of visibility changes the role of leadership. Instead of reacting to issues after they arise, decision-makers can identify trends as they develop, intervene earlier and plan with confidence. Whether it is adjusting stock allocation, refining delivery schedules or identifying high-performing locations, actions can be taken in the moment rather than retrospectively.’
Ordorite is designed with this in mind. By bringing point of sale, inventory management, logistics, finance integrations and marketing into one connected ecosystem, the platform removes the barriers between departments. ‘With tools like Vision IQ, retailers gain access to live KPI dashboards that provide immediate insight into sales performance, stock movement and operational efficiency. The result is not just better reporting, it is better leadership,’ says Connolly.
When data is clear, consistent and instantly available, leaders are empowered to focus on strategy rather
than administration and teams become more aligned, decisions become more confident and businesses become more agile.
‘As the retail landscape continues to evolve, the distinction between operational tools and leadership tools is disappearing. Technology is no longer just supporting the business, it is shaping its direction. For furniture and beds retailers looking to grow sustainably, integrated retail technology is not simply an upgrade: it is a strategic foundation for smarter, more effective leadership.’ Visit: ordorite.com
Adaptation, ambition and delivery
ADP Distribution is celebrating two decades of service
In an industry defined by constant change, longevity is never accidental: it is earned through adaptability, reliability and an unwavering commitment to doing things properly. 2026 sees ADP Distribution mark 20 years in business.
Founded on more than 50 years of combined specialist experience in visual merchandising, ADP Distribution began with a single vehicle and a clear vision: to provide dependable, flexible and professional logistics and installation services tailored to the needs of retail and commercial clients. Two decades on, that vision has scaled into a fleet of 12 vehicles, a 30,000sqft warehouse and a reputation for delivering complex projects on time, on brand and to budget across the UK and Europe.
From its strategically located base in central England, just one mile from the
M5 and major transport links, ADP has supported some of the most recognisable names in retail. Whether servicing a single installation or coordinating national product rollout distribution projects across hundreds of stores, the company has consistently demonstrated that size of project is never a barrier: only a question of how best to deliver it.
Growth at ADP Distribution has always been purposeful. In 2007, installation and project management services were formally launched, giving clients a fully integrated retail installation solution. By 2014, the brand’s ethos was captured in its slogan: Adapting to your requirements – we fit the pieces together. It was more than a marketing line; it was a statement of intent.
In 2017 it launched SampleWorx its dedicated flooring industry sample production business. With specialist expertise in LVT, carpet tiles, vinyl and accessories, SampleWorx reinforced ADP’s position as a creative as well as logistical partner, producing innovative sampling solutions that support sales at every level.
By 2018, ADP’s services were brought to life through the creation of its now well-known superhero ambassadors, with each representing a core service, from distribution and POS merchandising to installation, project management and
roll-out logistics. It was a distinctive way to communicate a serious message: ADP offers end-to-end solutions, backed by real people and real expertise.
The launch of the fulfilment and pick-and-pack service in 2019 further strengthened this proposition, giving clients transparent, flexible and scalable warehousing and distribution support, complete with tracking, reporting and inventory management.
When the industry faced unprecedented disruption during the 2020 pandemic, ADP once again adapted. The launch of its specialist carpet and flooring delivery service, including the industry-leading capability to deliver 5m widths to domestic addresses, set the business apart. Offering UK and European same-day delivery, three to five-day services, commercial and residential solutions, flexible payment terms and multiple signatory options, ADP proved that even in the most challenging conditions, innovation and service do not stand still.
For ADP the story is clear: a business built on trust, shaped by experience and driven by a genuine commitment to meeting clients’ needs – whatever they may be. The past 20 years have laid strong foundations. The next chapter promises even more.
Visit: adp-distribution.co.uk
ADP Distribution is marking its first 20 years and looking forward to its next chapter
RECRUITMENT
If you are looking to recruit staff for your furniture or flooring stores, looking for sales staff or reps for your manufacturing outlet, then INTERIORS MONTHLY offers a great package!
Our online package is just £175. Your advert will appear in our jobs section on the website until the position is filled or you ask us to remove. Our weekly newsletter, which is mailed every Thursday to 10,600+ industry professionals, also includes a list of these latest jobs.
If you have both online and quarter page recruitment advert in our magazine, the cost will only be £250!
Costs for larger recruitment adverts are available upon request.
Please contact Jarrod for bookings and deadlines. E: jbird@interiorsmonthly.co.uk
A helping hand in testing times...
“UKAS accredited testing laboratory specialising in flammability testing. LTS Ltd follows a business philosophy that is the soul of our company. It incorporates our mission and vision, high professional business ethics and values.”
The Lake District Collection, is Elements Luxury Carpets & Rugs latest addition to their atelier: three new Wilton textured flatweaves entitled Ruskin Herringbone, Beatrix Panama and Wordsworth Boucle. Each design has been carefully developed to celebrate texture, craftsmanship, and the quiet elegance of natural living.
Inspired by the serene landscapes and timeless charm of the Lake District, this collection captures the essence of laid-back luxury. Its understated aesthetic is designed to compliment both contemporary and classic interiors, offering a sense of relaxed sophistication that feels equally at home in modern spaces or more traditional settings.
Crafted using a durable Wilton weave, these flatweaves combine practicality with refined design. Their tightly woven construction creates a beautifully structured surface that feels elegant yet resilient, making them suitable for busy living spaces while maintaining a sense of quiet luxury underfoot. The versatile nature of the weave also allows the collection to perform effortlessly across indoor and outdoor environments.
“Each collection has five beautiful colours and textures - these flatweaves are durable, easy to clean, and effortlessly stylish. They are designed for indoor and outdoor living.”
Whether used wall-to-wall, as a statement rug, or styled to define different areas within a room, the Lake District Collection creates a seamless flow of style through-out the home. From living rooms and dining areas to conservatories, garden rooms, terraces, and patios, these designs offer a harmonious connection between interior comfort and outdoor living.
Each range is presented in five carefully curated natural shades, reflecting the warm, earthy palette of rural landscapes. Soft neutrals, gentle taupes, and organic tones evoke the authenticity and calm of country living, providing a versatile foundation that enhances a wide variety of interior schemes.
Elegant yet effortless, the tight weave and sophisticated texture create a statement of understated refinement. The result is a collection that feels both contemporary and enduring – designed not to overpower a space, but to elevate it with quiet confidence.
Perfect for those who appreciate beauty in every detail, the Lake District Collection embodies a thoughtful balance of practicality, craftsmanship, and natural style – bringing enduring comfort and refined simplicity to modern living.
RUSKIN HERRINGBONE - Hawkshead Image The Furniture Barn Scotland
