Interiors Monthly March 2015

Interiorsmonthly

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

Mar

ch 2

015

Local starsBest of British

BelgiumFlooring centre

t he ca rpe t spec ia l i s t s

SERVICE QUALITY VALUE

The Complete Service The Carpet Specialists upholstery dining bedroom carpets

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

Chris Melling General Manager 0044 (0)7970 269409Craig Melling Sales Manager 0044 (0)7872 861547Roger Seddon Operations Manager 0044 (0)7719 146566

[email protected] www.tcsimports.com

TCS - Solely Committed to Serving Independent Retailers

TCS - THE NEW CARPET AND FLOORING SPECIALISTS

INSPIRED EXCELLENCE

&4mm5

2PLYYARN

10

WIDE

TripleHeathered

Luxury

Year

Warranty

CALL NOW TO BECOME THE EXCLUSIVE TCS CARPETS STOCKIST IN YOUR AREA

CALL NOW TO BECOME THE EXCLUSIVE TCS CARPETS STOCKIST IN YOUR AREA

EDITOR’S COMMENT

www.interiorsmonthly.co.uk 3

A new challenge

Andrew KiddEDITOR

Carpet so soft you want to drag itinto bedwww.carpetyourlife.com

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

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

Interiorsmonthly

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

Mar

ch 2

015

Local starsBest of British

BelgiumFlooring centre

Harris’s decision to open an as yet unnamedflooring chain in the summer (see page 6) islikely to need two opening days: one forconsumers and one for the industry, becausehe has raised expectations of what we canexpect.

Harris says he wants to excite shoppersand express himself in a way that he wasunable to do in two decades at Carpetright.

This is to be applauded. If Harris caninspire consumers to think about what willbe under their feet first, rather than as anafterthought to what goes with the sofa orcurtains, he will have succeeded where manystill fail.

By concentrating on the upmarket sector,he’ll avoid direct competition with themarket leader, at least for a while, but it will

bring him into the territory currentlyoccupied by the better independents andJohn Lewis.

Adam Carpets’ new marketing approachalso deserves praise (see page 34), fortapping into consumers’ aspirations and loveof branding.

Shortly DFS will follow in the footsteps ofScS and return to the stock market (see page 12). Although its valuation issignificantly below what analysts wereforecasting a few months ago, those buyingthe shares will hope that the price will followthat of ScS, which has leapt in recent weeks.

One of the great things about flotations isthat companies usually have to reveal allsorts of information to would-be investors tomake sure there is no comeback later if theshare price dives. For ScS, one highlight wasthat carpet already makes up 12% of its salesand for DFS 36 months is the average creditterm, with 15% of shoppers buying therebecause of the IFC offer.

The Oscars and Brits may have passed, butit’s time to vote in the Interiors Monthly 2015Awards (see page 20). As ever the criteria onwhich you make your decision is entirely upto you: they are your awards.

Martin Harris’s return toflooring retailing and hisdesire to do what hecouldn’t do at Carpetrightwill be fascinating to see

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

Telephone: 00353 429 351 [email protected]

SERVICE QUALITY VALUE

TCS - Solely Committed to Serving Independent Retailers

The Complete Service The Carpet Specialistsupholstery dining bedroom carpets

Discount on ClaudiaStock Orders

in April

10%

Quote code IM03AD*T & C’s APPLY

*

STOCKED MODELS NOW AVAILABLE TO ORDER IN ANY COMBINATION

OF 3 SEATER, 2 SEATER OR 1 SEATER

CONTENTS


INSIDE THIS ISSUENEWS

6 Martin Harris to launch flooring chain

8 Dunelm targets furniture success

12 DFS poised for stock market return

FEATURES

20 Awards

Time to vote for the Interiors Monthly Awards 2015

24 Service

Delivering what matters

28 Best of British

A round-up of the best the UK has to offer

39 Belgium

News from the flooring kingdom

61 Beds and bedroom

Latest developments in the sector

82 Flooring

Mercado to host a trade day

84 Living and dining

Porro celebrates 90 years

88 France

A proud tradition

92 Review

January Furniture Show, Heimtextil and Home

REGULARS

16 New products

NEXT ISSUE

iSalone and Fuorisalone preview

Royal Warrants

BGNFS preview

INTERIORS MONTHLY MARCH 2015

NEWS

6 Interiors Monthly March 2015

Forget bland, says MartinHarris: excite shoppersThere is room in the UK for a second national flooring chain,and Martin Harris, former Carpetright group developmentdirector and son of the chain’s founder, says he will ‘express’himself when he launches it in the summer.

Harris, who has yet to decide on the name of the chain,says he will target upmarket shoppers and wants the storesto be destinations and excite consumers on how flooringcan transform a room.

Stores will range from 2,000sqft to 10,000sqft on out oftown and high street locations, with up to 200 planned overfive years.

He says there is room in the market for a second nationalflooring chain, targeting AB consumers. During his time atCarpetright he tried to widen the chain’s appeal, looking toattract middle-class shoppers such as the MargotLeadbetter character from TV series The Good Life.

‘I want people to get excited about the transformational

effect a new floor can have on their home. I want them to beinspired. Retail in flooring is a bit bland. I want the shoppingexperience to be a pleasure not a chore. I don’t think I gotan opportunity to express what I wanted to do [atCarpetright]. Everything I’ve learned over 20 years I’ll beable to express,’ he told Retail Week.

Harris has recruited former Carpetright non-executivedirector Sir Harry Djanogly as chairman. Sir Harry was atCarpetright from 1993 to 2005, and has been chairman ofCoats Viyella. His only listed directorship of a UK limitedcompany is that of Wittington Investments, owner of Heal’s,Selfridges, Fortnum & Mason and Primark.

Harris is listed as a director of CWH Projects, a companyestablished on 3 October 2014, along with his brotherCharles Harris, Paul Jacobs and Philip Saunders. All are alsodirectors of Harris Ventures.

Harris says he has his father’s support in the venture.

Two of the UK’s interiors exhibitions areset to be bigger.

A fourth day will be added to nextyear’s January Furniture Show. Theshow’s organiser had planned to keepthe three-day format, with the showrunning from 24-26 January as it movedto the traditional Sunday opening day.But the extra day, Wednesday, has beenadded after demand from exhibitors,with more than 70% requesting a longershow.

‘While there was significant support forthe three-day midweek slot, whichproved to work well with a near 100%rebooking of stand space, a four-dayshow with Sunday opening will helpsupport the carefully planned growthwhich will see the event take up Hall 4and part of Hall 5 in 2016. The extra daywill give buyers more choice and moretime to get round the show,’ says SteveRichards, January Furniture Showdirector.

‘Many exhibitors were keen to returnto a Sunday start as that was always apopular day for smaller independentbusinesses to visit the show. Extending itto four days also allows us, to someextent, to guard against the possible loss

Expansion for JFS and The Flooring Show

of a day of bad weather,’ he says.September’s The Flooring Show is set

to increase again with more floorspace,an expanded Wool Trends Centre andnew exhibitors.

More space has been added to theshow following demand from currentand new exhibitors, with over 85% of thespace already sold more than six monthsbefore the show starts.

After returning last year, VictoriaCarpets is expanding its stand whileKarndean will replace its two stands withone larger one.

New exhibitors include Asiatic, Gooch,Ryalux, MagiGlide and Malish & Steiner.

After the success of the Wool Trends

Centre, British Wool and Campaign forWool will be staging it again in 2015, inan enlarged space. The manufacturersthat featured in this area – Cavalier,Axminster, Brintons, Adams, Ulster, andBrockway – have all confirmed their 2015participation, and will be joined byWestex.

The Manchester Furniture Show (19-21 July) has moved closer to filling itsmain hall with the signing of Germanbedroom manufacturer Nolte, andSerene Furnishings, which will exhibit itsSerene Living recliner and dining brandfor the first time.

The main hall at Manchester Central isnow more than 90% booked.

The Flooring show’sWools Trends Centre willbe bigger in September

Welcome in a world of opportunity with Wansford and Kettle Interiors.

the launch of the new Wansford collection.

Arguably changing the landscape of oak furniturefor retailers throughout the UK thanks to itsexcellent pricing, £17.50. All 39 pieces for dining, occasional and

Our services have recently been restructured,soStockist package for regular customers and the

5 reasons to buy.

pine furniture of all styles.

in protection.

CHEAPEST

1.15m Butterfl y Extending Dining Table fr om £115

Crossback Dining Chair with PU Pad fr om £35

Console Table fr om £59.99

With excellent pricing the Wansford collection still features

providing a no-deposit delivery inclusive service

fast delivery across the UK.

01536 444960

NEWS


Dunelm hashigh hopesfor furniture

The National Bed Federation’s Code ofPractice has been awarded the importantAssured Advice status by TradingStandards.

This effectively gives NBF membersfollowing the code’s requirementsreassurance that they are legallycompliant when it comes to flammabilityregulations, cleanliness of fillings andtrade descriptions.

For retailers the code takes the worryand work out of ensuring compliance

with legal requirements relating to theproducts they stock from NBF members.

Acceptance of the NBF’s code asAssured Advice comes on the back ofsetting up a coordinated PrimaryAuthority Partnership with WestYorkshire Trading Standards.

‘We are thrilled to be able to offer NBFmembers a chance to join a coordinatedPrimary Authority Partnership,’ says NBFpresident Stuart Hibbert.

‘Members who join the scheme will

benefit from consistent and fairenforcement of regulations as well asaccess to robust and reliable regulatoryadvice which will apply to every NBFmember in the scheme. Plus, having ourCode of Practice adopted as AssuredAdvice means that regulatory authoritieswill accept our members are meetingtheir legal obligations in those areas itcovers. If that doesn’t prove that ourcode has teeth, I don’t know what will,’ he adds.

John Lewis enjoyed a 7%increase in homeware sales inthe second half of its financialyear.

Home sales rose by 7% inthe week to 31 January,helping to end the 27 weekperiod up by the sameamount.

‘Home rounded off its bestyear for many with a crackingweek in furniture. Beds has

been the star turn all year –reward for a perfectassortment. Gifts and textilesalso stood out,’ says AndyStreet, John Lewis md.

‘Among the shops the AtHomes once again led theway. Chester took up thebaton [this] week (up 14.4%),but for the year Newbury,Chichester, Poole andTamworth all cleared 10%.’

Hypnos sales increaseSales at bed maker Hypnos increased by almost a fifth last year.

Sales at Hypnos and Hypnos Contract Beds’ parent companyKeen and Toms Holdings, rose by 19% to £36.7m in the 2014financial year. Sales have risen by 57% in the past three years.

‘It has been a fantastic and successful 12 months for Hypnos.We could not have wished for a stronger performance from thebusiness which has seen international expansion, as well asgrowth in the UK, with our royal patronage, carbon neutralstatus and position as National Bed Federation BedManufacturer of the Year all helping to push the businessforward,’ says James Keen, Hypnos director.

NBF code gets Trading Standards backing

Dunelm has targeted a major rise in its furniture sales as itlooks to outperform the economy, boost like for like sales,and become more responsive.

For years the chain has thrown off cash, which it hasbanked, but with the return of Will Adderley as chiefexecutive, the financial focus will be on returning that toshareholders. Dunelm will boost its next dividend by 10%to 5.5p and pay £141.7m in a special dividend this month,with the founding Adderley family receiving £77m.

After pre-tax profits rose by 10.7% to £68.2m in the sixmonths to 27 December, with sales up 14% to £406m,Adderley wants sales to rise by half in the next five years,reaching £1.2bn.

‘We have a huge opportunity to drive growth for in-storesales. We need to focus on becoming an even betterretailer. We can move our product ranges along morerapidly, taking a few more chances with new ranges andnew designs. Furniture, because of its physical size, lendsitself particularly to home delivery and we anticipate thatfurniture can be a significant contributor to our homedelivery growth over the coming years,’ he says.

But David Stead, Dunelm finance director, warned that‘whilst the opportunity to develop a meaningful revenuestream via furniture is potentially attractive, we are stilllearning about the dynamics of this market. At our currentlevel of activity and with our current supply chainstructure, this part of the business is only marginallyprofitable.

‘Given our investment in furniture inventories, there is arisk of gross margin dilution in the event that significantprice action is required in the future to clear slow-movinglines,’ he adds.

Homewares boostJohn Lewis’ Fusion collection

Explore the breathtakingly beautiful Cotswolds with ournew 100% Wool collection - coming soon!

MADE IN BRITAIN

NATURALORDER

Rusticroots

SPIRITUALInspiration

CreativeFreedom

Historiccharm

with a palette reflecting the harminous countryside and three designs available - textured plains, small check and herringbone - there really is something for every home

visit our website: www.kersaintcobb.co.uk

Ass

ocia

ted

Wea

vers

Sale

s:01

42

24

3110

0Em

ail:

sale

suk@

awe.

be

Share the success of softnessWe’ve certainly set the market standard inSuper Soft Carpet since the launch of iSenselast year and we are building on that successtoday with two new on-trend colours tocomplement the existing ranges – Serenity,Seduction and Splendour. Three new innovativeranges will be added to the iSense collectionin the Spring this year. ‘Surprise’ will be a totallynew idea where a lurex thread has beentwisted into the soft polyamide iSense yarnto give it a glamorous sparkle effect. Surprisewill be available in 10 colours 4m and 5m

widths incorporating our new Fusion Bac.Also to be launched will be ‘Satin’, a heavierversion of our popular Seduction cloth availablein 14 trend colours. To complete the set will beour new heavy weight ‘Hermes’ carpet – a softchunky Saxony in 12 fashionable pastel shades.iSense has certainly hit the spot with the retailtrade and now for 2015 we have introduceda 20 Year Wear Warranty to emphasis thethat softness and durability can go togetherin one carpet.

Invictus: Soft Carpet – Invincible Performance

Invictus is the latest revelation that will be launched byAssociated Weavers in 2015. The collection comprisesof four qualities offering unbeatable softness andperformance. Invictus is manufactured using our newpolypropylene yarn ‘iVinci’ and will incorporate our newfusion bac for further comfort and performance. ‘iVinci’yarn gives the carpet super softness, lustre, high bulkand outstanding stain resistant performance. All Invictusproducts come with a 20 Year Stain Guarantee and20 Year Wear Warranty.

Look

f or

the

Butt

er

y

Multi-WidthHelping the consumer Save MoneyAssociated Weavers have now introduced moreMulti-Width ranges for 2015. 90% of all our rangesnow include extra wide width 5 metres, giving morechoice to the consumer and also helping to avoidthose unsightly seams.

The Sensuality Collection

iSense will get even stronger with new product launches during 2015.

The ‘Surprise’ range is another leap ahead.

James SummerskillMarketing Manager Associated Weavers

“ ”

NEWS


DFS value downgraded by£200m ahead of flotation

DFS in numbers15% of DFS consumers buy from the chain because of its IFC offer andabout two-thirds of sales by value are by IFC.29% of sales by volume are produced by DFS and 88% of theremainder is manufactured by five suppliers. 60% of sales are from products manufactured in Asia and ContinentalEurope.25.7% is DFS’s share of the £3bn upholstery market.£80m a year is spent on consumer advertising.75% is spontaneous brand awareness.18% in 2012 to 21% in 2014 is the market share growth in the £1.3bn‘Quality Seeker’ sector, with Sofa Workshop providing another 1%.20 further sites for 10,000sqft-15,000sqft stores have been identified.The first of its smaller format 2,000sqft-5,000sqft stores will open atWestfield Stratford as it targets independent retailers in urban areasand market towns.12% is the annual online sales rise between 2010 and 2014. 70% of online orders are from shoppers who have not visited a DFSstore in the past three months.36 months is shoppers average credit term.

DFS owner Advent International priced DFS atbetween £525m and £645m before its return tothe stock market this month, up to £200m lessthan analysts had suggested just months ago asinvestor enthusiasm in flotations has easedahead of the UK general election.

Advent hopes to raise £98m which will be usedto reduce debts of about £200m whenunconditional dealing begins on 11 March.

DFS, which also owns the Dwell and SofaWorkshop brands, had sales of £675m andadjusted earnings before interest, tax,depreciation and amortisation of £85m in theyear to November. In the 26 weeks to 15 Januarytotal sales rose by 9%.

‘Our vision is to take DFS from being a greatBritish business to a world class business. This isan exciting time for us as we continue to drivegrowth initiatives that are already under wayagainst a backdrop of an improving macro-economic environment. We see significantopportunity to further increase the group’spenetration in the UK, strengthen our position asthe market leader for online upholsteredfurniture sales, and we recently enteredContinental Europe with the opening of our firststore in the Netherlands,’ says Ian Filby, DFS ceo.

Meanwhile, ScS saw its share price climb from175p to 214p in the weeks after its late-Januaryflotation, valuing it at £85.6m The flotationraised about £35m for Sun European Partners,which bought ScS from administration in 2008.

Upholstery accounts for 88% of the chain’s£258.2m sales, and flooring 12%.

Noel Lister, co-founder of MFI,philanthropist and sailor, died on 29January, aged 87.

On leaving school he joined the armyfor six years, where his entrepreneurialspirit was already apparent: on a troopship to Egypt towards the end of theSecond World War he traded cigarettesand tea to other soldiers.

On returning home he got a job in afurniture store and met and marriedSylvia in 1955: they had two children,Penny and Paul.

He built up his own furniture business,

popularising the concept of the diningroom suite by selling tables withmatching chairs, and introducing bunkbeds to the home.

In 1964 he and Donald Searlelaunched MFI, focusing on flatpackfurniture and out of town stores: twoaspects he had seen Ikea successfullyachieve.

MFI floated in 1971 and after rapidexpansion merged with Asda in 1985,allowing Lister to sell his remaining 8%stake for £60m.

After selling MFI he then furthered his

passion for sailing, spending a decadedouble circumnavigating the world withSylvia on their yacht Whirlwind XII.

In 1987 he set up sailing charity theUKSA, the priority being to make aninitial £4m charitable donation but thenfor it to run as a business.

During the late 1990s Noel and Sylviasettled in the Bahamas. He took on theleadership of rebuilding Treasure Baywhen it was hit by a hurricane in 2001,but on the last day of rehabilitatingTreasure Bay, he suffered a severe strokeand was in hospital for three months.

MFI founder Noel Lister makes his final voyage

DFS has 105 stores

www.furlongflooring.co.uk

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

Wool Collection

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

Dolce Moda A Class Act

With Elegance & Opulence enjoying fantastic success in the marketplace,

Dolce Moda joins them in the Carefree Prestige range from Regency Carpets.

Breathing new life into the luxury carpet market,

this stylishly modern, ultra soft touch saxony

is available across 12 neutral colours.

With 2-ply twist in Carefree polypropylene,

Dolce Moda is stain resistant, bleach cleanable

and available in both 4m & 5m widths.

To take advantage of this great range contact us today.

NEW PRODUCTS


1

3 4 5

2

1 Shaking aside the constraints of the

50 x 50cm carpet tile and reimagining a

highly flexible 100 x 25cm dimension, Mix to

the Max by Balta Broadloom is inspired by

the format and patina of wood flooring, yet

with the possibility for virtually limitless

design and layout combinations.

Tel: 00 32 5662 2211

2 A unique addition to Polyflor’s Expona

family, Expona Flow offers 50 heavy

commercial sheet vinyl flooring designs in a

2m wide sheet format with a 2mm gauge

and a 0.7mm wear layer. Designs include

wood planks from a diverse range of tree

species and wood treatments, with

innovative abstract and fantastical materials,

with vast colour and pattern combinations.

Tel: 0161 767 1111

3 Kährs’ Bloc Collection is an on-trend

patterned wood floor created using

individual oak staves in three different sizes

and shades. Sections are easily joined using

an oak tongue to create unlimited geometric

designs – from traditional herringbone to

modern brick – in single or multi-colours.

Tel: 023 9245 3045

4 Quick-Step master installer Mark Sands

(right), along with his colleague Jack

Slaughter, both of Kiley’s Carpets,

Eastbourne, fitted more than 70sqm of

Impressive laminate to House Beautiful’s Ideal

Home Show Home for Life showcase in one

day, testament to the speed of Quick-Step’s

Uniclic profile and their skills as expert

installers.

Visit: www.quick-step-academy.co.uk

5 Terrazzo decor has been added to the

Tile Styles collection by Leoline. With a

mineralised look, Terrazzo offers three

colourways. From limestone through

sand and into slate, it brings a new

dimension to the collection of tile and

stone looks.

Visit: www.leoline.co.uk ��

GREENWOOD RETAIL LTDBritain’s Leading Experts in Retail Sales Promotion

[email protected] www.greenwoodretail.com

DON’T GO AHEAD ANDBOOK GREENWOOD,UNLESS YOU KNOW

IT’S RIGHT FOR YOU…

“A Whole Quarter of Annual Turnover inThree Weekends!”

Mathew Sheard, Hunter’s of Derby.

“It’s a No-Brainer. Why Wouldn’t You? Our5th Greenwood Smashed the Last One!”

David Carroll, Abey Furnishing Co Ltd, Grimsby.

“We Surpassed Our Last Big Sale with 3 Months Business in Just 2 Weeks!”

David Morrison, Planet Furniture, Glenrothes.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUTGREENWOOD SALES...

As literally hundreds of quality independent retailers,based all over the UK and Ireland know very well, the

benefits of holding a ‘Greenwood Sale’ are many.

Firstly, your sales event will be a financial success initself. Plus, you’ll generate instant cash flow, fill your

order book and clear your redundant stock – withgood margin maintained. And, longer term benefitsinclude increased market share due to the positive

publicity created by the event. Also, it’s exciting – yourteam will love to see the business doing so well.

Find Out More About Greenwood Sales. Take a lookat our website or call us now on 01565 650101, or, send

an e mail enquiry, and we’ll gladly contact you todiscuss the exciting possibilities we can offer you,

without obligation.

BOOKING NOW FOR 2015

CALL TODAY 01565 650101

NEW PRODUCTS


6 Luxury vinyl tiles from Polyflor’s high

design and high performance Expona

flooring range were used to create a

statement floor design at the Harris + Hoole

coffee shop in Slough recently. Expona

Design PUR Light Elm 6182, Creme Matrix

8077 and Mocca Matrix 8076 tiles were

installed for front of house and Expona

Control PUR safety flooring for the back.

Visit: www.polyflor.com

7 Innermost has updated its bestselling

Circus light with a shade of grey on the

exterior and matt white interiors, rather than

its signature antique gold. It also has single

and double Circus wall lights.

Visit: www.innermost.net

8 Woodnotes has introduced a version

of its K swivel chair with arms. Suitable for

both residential and contract use, it has a

coordinating footstool.

Visit: www.woodnotes.fi

9 Exclusively available in rolls only and

delivered from UK stock in just five days,

Crown Floors has introduced Burton in a

100% bleach-cleanable polypropylene yarn

and Texflor backing. It is available in five

colours and a 4m width with a 39oz weight.

It has seven-year wear and 10-year stain

warranties.

Tel: 0800 077 3301

10 Balta Broadloom’s Royal Oxford brings a

contemporary take on saxony. Super plush

and with the benefits of Balta’s high

performance X-Tron fibre, this is a carpet that

brings lavish looks, softness and comfort to

the home. There is a choice of a dozen

colours and 4m and 5m widths.

Tel: 00 32 5662 2211

6 7

8

9

10

Beautiful wool & yak carpets from

The finest wool blendsfrom around the world.

Gordon HugoT: 07976 [email protected]

NEW TOMBOLAS& MERCHANDISING NOW AVAILABLE CALL GORDON HUGO07976 607657

Beautiful and exclusive wool and wool-blendcarpets without the price tag.

AWARDS


Pick your favouriteThe most coveted awards in the UK interiorsindustry will again be decided by you in theInteriors Monthly Awards 2015.

We want you to tell us who you think are the bestsuppliers, retailers and events in the 49 categoriesthat you decide.

As ever, the judging criteria is entirely up to you,

be it quality of product, commercial success,customer service, design, or anything else – it’s your choice to reward the best in the business.

Just complete the entry form and fax it to 01732 362 919 – a copy will also be available todownload online at www.interiorsmonthly.co.uk – or email: [email protected].

Best Furniture Retailer (1-2 stores):Ponsford Best Flooring Retailer (1-2 stores):MilnersBest Furniture Retailer (3 plus stores):GlasswellsBest Flooring Retailer (3 plus stores):Martin Phillips Best Online Retailer: LoafBest UK Furniture Manufacturer:Westbridge Furniture Best UK Flooring Manufacturer:Furlong Flooring Best Overseas Furniture Manufacturer:WiemannBest Overseas Flooring Manufacturer:Balta BroadloomBest Customer Service (Furniture): TCSBest Customer Service (Flooring):Ulster CarpetsBest Carpet Manufacturer: Cormar Carpets Best Leather Upholstery Manufacturer:NatuzziBest Laminate Manufacturer: Quick-Step Best Fabric Upholstery Manufacturer:Ashley Manor Best Rug Supplier: Think Rugs Best Recliner Manufacturer: Stressless

Best Underlay Manufacturer: Ball & Young Best Bed Manufacturer: Sealy UKBest Solid/Engineered WoodManufacturer: Kährs (UK) Best Luxury Vinyl Supplier: Karndean International Best Children’s Furniture: Gautier UK Best Vinyl Manufacturer: IVCBest Accessory Supplier: Gallery DirectBest Accessory Supplier (Flooring):InterfloorBest Fabric/Soft FurnishingsManufacturer: Prestigious Textiles Best Bedroom Manufacturer: RauchBest Home Entertainment:Jual Furnishings Best Living Room Manufacturer: G Plan Cabinets Best Dining Room Manufacturer:Willis & Gambier Best Furniture Buying Group: AISBest Flooring Buying Group: SMGBest Furniture Wholesaler: Julian Bowen Best Flooring Wholesaler: Floorwise Group Best Marketing Support (Furniture):SilentnightBest Marketing Support (Flooring):Wools of New Zealand (UK)

Best Furniture Exhibition: IMM Cologne Best Flooring Exhibition: The Flooring Show Best Furniture Website: SilentnightBest Flooring Website: BalterioBest Software Supplier:RetailSystem.com Best Finance Provider: CreationBest Supply Chain/Logistics Company:Ceva Logistics Best Business Support (Furniture):Vale-BridgecraftBest Business Support (Flooring):Flooring OneBest New Supplier: ArkanaInnovation of the Year: Wool Owners WarrantyEDITOR’S CHOICEInnovation In Furniture: Re-Vive Recliner, Natuzzi Innovation In Flooring:iSense, Associated Weavers Flooring Brand 2014: BrintonsFurniture Brand 2014: Ercol Furniture Sustainability (Flooring): ModuleoSustainability (Furniture): HypnosOutstanding Performance: Adam Carpets Best Furniture Export Support: Polish Foreign Trade

Westbridge and Karndean were among the 2014 winners

2014 winners��

A designer floorwithout the designer price tag...

www.moduleo.co.uk

Make any floor magnificent with Moduleo® Transform vinyl flooring, which

brings warmth and character into your home via the lovingly recreated details

of natural wood and stone. A wide range of styles ensures that there’s a design

for any space, while Transform’s unique properties provide a floor that’s

waterproof, quiet to walk on, easy to clean and warm to the touch.

Best of all, the exceptionally hardwearing top layer means that you can enjoy

the stunning good looks of Moduleo® Transform for years to come.

...must be Moduleo®

AWARDS


RETAILERS TO COMPLETE ONLY

Best Customer Service (Furniture)

.................................................................................................................

Best UK Furniture Manufacturer

.................................................................................................................

Best Overseas Furniture Manufacturer

.................................................................................................................

Best Furniture Buying Group

.................................................................................................................

Best Accessory Supplier

.................................................................................................................

Best Bed Manufacturer

.................................................................................................................

Best Bedroom Manufacturer

.................................................................................................................

Best Dining Room Manufacturer

.................................................................................................................

Best Living Room Manufacturer

.................................................................................................................

Best Children’s Furniture Manufacturer

.................................................................................................................

Best Fabric Upholstery Manufacturer

.................................................................................................................

Best Leather Upholstery Manufacturer

.................................................................................................................

Best Furniture Wholesaler

.................................................................................................................

Best Fabric/Soft Furnishings Manufacturer

.................................................................................................................

Best Furniture Exhibition

.................................................................................................................

Best Furniture Website

.................................................................................................................

Best Customer Service (Flooring)

.................................................................................................................

Best UK Flooring Manufacturer

.................................................................................................................

Best Overseas Flooring Manufacturer

.................................................................................................................

Best Flooring Buying Group

.................................................................................................................

Best Carpet Manufacturer

.................................................................................................................

Best Rug Supplier

.................................................................................................................

Best Laminate Manufacturer

.................................................................................................................

Best Solid/Engineered Wood Manufacturer

.................................................................................................................

Best Underlay Manufacturer

.................................................................................................................

Best Flooring Accessory Supplier

.................................................................................................................

Best Vinyl Manufacturer

.................................................................................................................

Best Luxury Vinyl Supplier

.................................................................................................................

Best Flooring Exhibition

.................................................................................................................

Best Flooring Website

.................................................................................................................

Best Flooring Wholesaler

.................................................................................................................

Best Software Supplier

.................................................................................................................

Best Finance Provider

.................................................................................................................

Best Supply Chain/Logistics Company

.................................................................................................................

Best Business Support (Flooring)

.................................................................................................................

Best Business Support (Furniture)

.................................................................................................................

Best Marketing Support

.................................................................................................................

Best New Exhibition

.................................................................................................................

Innovation of the Year

.................................................................................................................

Best Mattress Manufacturer

.................................................................................................................

Best Recliner Manufacturer

.................................................................................................................

Best Home Entertainment Supplier

.................................................................................................................

Best New Supplier

.................................................................................................................

Product of the Year

.................................................................................................................

SUPPLIERS TO COMPLETE ONLY

Best Flooring Retailer (1-2 stores)

.................................................................................................................

Best Flooring Retailer (3+ stores)

.................................................................................................................

Best Furniture Retailer (1-2 stores)

.................................................................................................................

Best Furniture Retailer (3+ stores)

.................................................................................................................

Best Online Retailer

.................................................................................................................

Please fax your completed form to 01732 362 919

or email your nominations to: [email protected]

Name .....................................................................................................

Company ..............................................................................................

Position .................................................................................................

Tel ....................................... Email .......................................................

To see the full range or request a free sample please visit: www.axminster-carpets.co.ukor call us: 01297 33533 / 32244

made inGREAT

BRITAIN www.axminster-carpets.co.uk

Simply Natural Ribgrass Stipple Breccia/Eggshell - 45113

Introducing 12 NEW colours to our Simply Natural range.

Simply NaturalStunning textured carpets produced using our unique cabled yarn to produce hard wearing carpets that retain all the luxury of pure new wool.

NEWCOLOURS

available now

Why so many retailers ask a101-year-old to help them retire.

At the Lynch Sales Company, we’re proud to have helped so many retailers retire. We’ve done so in a way that maximizes the value of their businesses while allowing for a smooth transition to the next generation of ownership.

Our copyrighted retirement sales plan can generate 50% or more of your store’s annual sales volume in 30 to 60 days. This provides the funds necessary for you to leave your business with peace of mind while you pursue your next “career.”

To learn more, call the Lynch Sales Company today for a complete outline, including a copy of our easy-to-understand, one-page contract, or visit www.LynchSales.co.uk

Serving the U.S., Canada and the U.K. el: +44 (0) 1243 37836 www.LynchSales.co.uk

Copyright 2015 Lynch Brothers Licensing Corporation

OVER 100 YEARS OF INTEGRITY AND RESULTS

SERVICE


Focus on what mattersService is one of Julian Bowen’s core strengths and 2015 sales have leaptJulian Bowen has had an exceptionalstart to 2015 following the launch of itscollections at the January FurnitureShow. It has continued to focus onintroducing new products and this hasresulted in double-digit increases in theorder intake over last year, with invoicedsales for the first seven weeks 18.5%higher than 2014.

These impressive figures are a clearindication that the company is growingits market share in 2015.

‘We clearly recognise the importanceof customer service offering a completepackage to meet customers’ needs. Weare set up to deliver to the customer ondirect container and multi-drops whichare delivered on our commercial fleet

with no minimum order. We also have agrowing demand for overnightcollections with all orders received onthe same day up until 2pm picked,labelled and loaded by a dedicated teamon to the designated carrier for deliveryto the consumer the following day,’ saysfounder Julian Bowen.

The company is experiencingsignificant increases in demand fromnew and existing customers for its directhome delivery and assembly service,which has seen the fleet double in recentmonths to keep up with demand.

‘A fully responsible door to door, roomof choice, two-man service, offers theretailer and consumer a trouble freeexperience. We pride ourselves on having

skilled staff, and a highly efficient ITinfrastructure that enables customers to receive overnight/hourly stockinformation to ensure they have fulltransparency of the product stockposition,’ he explains.

To ensure it can maintain service levelsJulian Bowen has 95% of ranges in stock:worth £5m at trade prices.

‘Product innovation and quality arekey to the Julian Bowen success storyand we have produced many innovativeand competitively priced products whichcontinue to be market leaders. We have aclear focus on launching new collectionsevery six months. There are overseasquality control teams based in all thecountries where our products aremanufactured and every element of theproduct is scrutinised from thepackaging right down to the last screwand bolt.

‘We recognise the ever demandingneeds of our customers and we areconstantly looking at ways we canimprove our service to meet theirrequirements,’ Bowen adds.Visit: www.julian-bowen.co.uk

There are always 95%of ranges in stock

Julian Bowen Limited

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

All Products are available for Direct Home Delivery

Unparalleled Service from the Leaders

• No Minimum Order

• Direct Containers

• Full Truck Loads

• Multidrop Deliveries

• Direct Home Delivery with Liveried Trucks & Drivers

• Same Day Dispatch For Next Day Delivery

• Overnight Stock Reports as Required

• Assembly Service

• Courteous Skilled Staff

• £5M Furniture in Stock

• 95% “in Stock” Position Maintained

• Innovative Commercial Designs

• New Product Collections Every 6 Months

• Competitive Pricing

• Full Time at Source Quality Inspection Teams

• Full Order/Invoice EDI Capabilities

• Fit For Purpose Packaging

Triple Award WinnerVoted UK’sNumber 1FurnitureWholesaler

2012

Voted UK’sNumber 1FurnitureWholesaler

2013

Voted UK’sNumber 1FurnitureWholesaler

2014

and innovation. We have investedsignificantly in specialist handlingequipment, stock management systems,vehicles and bespoke routeing andplanning software in order to provide ourcustomers with the smoothest and mostprofessional of services.’

Employing 100 people, the companyhas 30 articulated vehicles for furnitureretail delivery and 20 home deliveryvehicles. It carries out 3,500 home andretail deliveries a week.

‘We continue to improve our customeroffering, with a recent warehouseexpansion and rolling refurbishment ofall our retail delivery wagons and homedelivery vehicles to ensure a consistentlysmart appearance,’ says Aspey.

The company has a full-packagefurniture logistics offering which isproving popular with customers,including Perfect Home, HSL and La-Z-Boy UK. This includes warehousing andstorage, pick and pack, home and retail

SERVICE


Furniture logistics specialist AndrewPorter is celebrating 20 years in theindustry.

Based in Chorley, Lancashire, itlaunched its furniture division in 1995and has since formed solid partnershipswith some of the UK’s leading retailers,manufacturers and importers.

Andrew Porter began its furniturelogistics provision with a small amount ofdeliveries for Cavendish Upholstery,which, at the time, was based at thesame converted mill in Chorley.Cavendish soon asked Andrew Porter totake on all of its retail deliveries – whichthe firm still does to this day.

White glove home delivery servicesbegan a year later, after a request fromretailer Witham Furniture in Grantham.

In 1999 it relocated to a purpose builthead office and storage warehouse – oneof the largest in the north of England. Itnow has more than 80,000sqft ofwarehouse space, 7,500 pallet bays andan in-house training centre.

‘We are very excited to be celebratingthe milestone of our 20th year infurniture logistics and would like tothank our loyal customers for theirongoing support,’ says Tim Aspey,Andrew Porter md.

‘Over the years our focuses have been,and continue to be, on customer service

Delivering milestonesService and innovation is at the heart of Andrew Porter’s logistics business

Andrew Porter has twice won the Interiors Monthly Best Supply Chain/Logistics Company award

SERVICE


delivery, and handling of returned goods.Specialist additional services such ascoating or painting of furniture or pre-assembly prior to delivery are alsoavailable.

Last year it won the Growing Businessof the Year 2014 accolade in the RedRose Awards, which celebrates firmsheadquartered in Lancashire.

New business in the furniture sectorcame from clients including Costco,Dormeo Octaspring, Lebus Upholstery

Timeline1973 The company is launchedas a home removals and storagefirm.

1995 Furniture logistics armlaunched, starting with a smallnumber of deliveries forCavendish Furniture which soonasks the firm to provide all of itsretail deliveries.

1996 After being approachedby Witham Furniture inGrantham it begins providinghome delivery services.

1999 Opening of Porter House,a purpose built head office andstorage warehouse in Adlington,Chorley.

2001 A mezzanine floor is builtat its furniture warehouse,taking total space to 80,000sqftand 7,500 pallet bays.

2004 Tim Aspey appointed md.

2004 Begins to develop aspecialist turnkey furniturelogistics package, offeringwarehousing, deliveries,planning and additional services.The service is expanded andrefined over the years and is nowused by a wide range of clientsincluding Perfect Home, HSL andLa-Z-Boy UK.

2012 The company invests in abespoke vehicle routeing andtracking system to minimise fuelwastage and encourage saferdriving techniques.

2013 Refurbishes warehouse.

2014 Wins Growing Business ofthe Year at the Red Rose Awards.

and Chelsom Furniture, while existingcustomers increased their deliveries.

It has also secured a contract to delivercomprehensive logistics provision todining and occasional furniture companyChelsom Furniture, based in Blackpool,including warehousing, route planningand retail deliveries.

Andrew Porter carries out about 250deliveries to independent and multipleretailers throughout the UK and Republicof Ireland each week for Chelsom.

‘We had several meetings with theteam and visited Andrew Porter’sheadquarters to view the warehousingfacilities first hand,’ says Mike Ledger,Chelsom director of furniture.

‘The company’s industry knowledge,forward thinking attitude and the highstandard of facilities impressed us a greatdeal. It is also very useful from our pointof view to be able to have “pay as youuse” warehousing and logistics terms.’Visit: www.andrewporterltd.co.uk

La-Z-Boy is among its customers

The company has 30 articulated vehicles for furniture retail delivery

‘We have invested significantly…to provide our customers withthe smoothest and mostprofessional of services’

BEST OF BRITISH


Look into the futureThe Design Council has highlighted the next generation of designerswho are likely to represent British design in the coming years

The Design Council’s Ones to Watch 70project, part of its 70th anniversarycelebrations, spotlights the most excitingup and coming designers in the UK whotogether represent the future of Britishdesign.

‘We are proud to be marking 70 yearsof the Design Council in 2015 with theexemplary Ones to Watch line up of new

designers. Ones to Watch offers anexciting vision of our future, with freshideas from emerging designers thataddress important contemporary livingchallenges from sustainability to health,education to city living, and simple buteffective ways to improve everyday life,’says John Mathers, Design Council chiefexecutive.

‘The variety of the designs illustratesthe diverse nature of ideas coming out of the UK, and we hope to see thesedesigners producing more exciting workover the coming years.’

Here are the interiors products fromthe two relevant categories selectedamong the 70.Visit: www.designcouncil.org.uk ��

The Sequence of Making by Rebecca Skelton Design does not necessarily have to be planned, argues Rebecca Skeltonwith her furniture kit design, The Sequence of Making. The work explores thehuman instinct for making, and gives users the freedom to react to texture,shape and colour in the process. A series of wooden and fabric componentsare provided that can be slotted and woven together in multiple ways,according to the preferences of the individual.

Material world

From Insects by Marlene HuissoudThe designer uses the common honeybee and the Indian silkworm as co-partners in the design process, crafting an extraordinary series of vesselsand furniture from their byproducts. The bee produces propolis, a naturalbio-degradable resin, which Huissoud finds has similar properties to glass.The Indian silkworm discards its hard silk cocoon when it reaches maturityand from this she has developed ‘wooden leather’. As more people considerwhether insects will become our future food source, From Insects goes thatone step further.

Plag by Waël SeaibyPlag is a unique upcycling process in which plastic bags are used to createattractive art pieces reminiscent of ceramics and glass crafts. Plastic bags areconsidered to be some of the most wasteful products of modern society.Seaiby melts down and moulds the plastic of valueless bags beforepowdering and reforming them. The resulting beautiful hand-workedvessels, evocative of the crinkly plastic bags they came from, make a clevereco statement.

As part of an ongoing conversation with materialscience young designers are setting new boundaries,unlocking the potential of advances in one field andcross-pollinating from another. Designers are gettingexcited about the possibilities of materials andprocesses, using them to break new ground. Here wesee designers exploring relationships with nature,thinking differently about waste, and discoveringmaterials at an atomic level.

Our British furniture manufacturers are

committed to providing the highest levels

of comfort, safety and quality to their

customers - just three of the traits that

make Great British furniture ‘great’.

IT IS furniture for any age, style,

budget or taste. IT IS for the traditional,

contemporary, classical or modern home

and office and contract markets. IT IS

desired and admired the world over. ASK if IT IS

British or look out

for the label

BEST OF BRITISH


Everyday living Design for everyday living is about simple andfunctional, yet often beautiful, design that offerssolutions to the daily challenges that arise from fast-paced lifestyles. These smart and resourceful designsmeet today’s routine needs.

Finn by Oliver HrubiakWith the Finn chair, Oliver Hrubiak challenges contemporary ‘disposable’furniture. He was inspired by the enduring aesthetic appeal of mid-centuryScandinavian design. Incorporating top quality British steel, the chair iscompact and elegant as well as being supportive, warm and tactile. Crucially,Finn is designed to rise above fashion trends. Central to its appeal is its goodproportions, simple shapes, soft lines and natural finishes.

Freeform by Dan Hoolahan Freeform is a playful and multifunctional furniture range. These pieces,designed in ash timber, can take on varying roles, including seating, tablesand shelving. Screw threads cut into the wood allow for quick and easyconstruction that is intuitive, tactile and doesn’t require tools to assemble.Freeform has a limited impact on the environment and can be easily movedfrom home to home, taking on different forms or functions to fit therequirements of each living space.

Store and Pour by Rebecca Price Store and Pour storage jars are designed to fit neatly into small kitchenspaces and make it easy to measure out correct portions of rice. The pour jaris designed to pour into the lid, which holds one portion of uncooked rice.The storage jar shape is mirrored in the lid and therefore is easy to pick upand pour into the cooking pan. The jars are not just useful and compact, butalso help to promote a culture of healthy eating.

Current Table by Marjan van AubelThe glass top of Current Table incorporates a dye sensitised solar cell. Unlikeclassic solar cells, these coloured cells do not require direct sunlight to workand can function under diffused light. Current Table effectively uses theprocess of photosynthesis to gather and harvest energy from daylight. Thispower is then applied directly to the domestic environment, where it can beused to charge up household appliances.

Monochromatic Modifications by Hannah Lois SangwinShapes and patterns from everyday life inspire Hannah Lois Sangwin’s boldand brave printed textiles. The simplicity of shape intertwined with theintricacy of pattern make for a playful design. The monochromatic elementof her hand-drawn designs leaves the viewer entranced.

Comfort Style Sophistication

Lebus Upholstery Ltd, Queensway Ind Est, Dunlop Way, Scunthorpe, Lincolnshire, DN16 3RN, United Kingdom

For more information contact: t. 01724 407 751 e. [email protected]

BEST OF BRITISH


Classic glamourParker Knoll’s latest collections cover tradition and luxuryParker Knoll is a thoroughly Britishmanufacturing company, with anenviable heritage and reputationcovering 145 years.

The collection has always been of thehighest quality with style and greatdesign remaining at the heart of thebrand in the 21st century, as it looks tolead the market in design, technologyand innovation.

At the January Furniture Show, ParkerKnoll launched two additions to theClassic collection, alongside a glamorousrange of classic fabrics to accent thecollection.

Seaton, with its casual inspiredtailoring and contemporary pea armcushion pushes the boundaries for ParkerKnoll as a softer approach to glamorousseating. Classic and generously

proportioned, the Newark provides theultimate seating experience with thehelp of large scroll arms and encore seatinteriors for added comfort.

In addition, the contemporary LifeStylecollection was showcased, together withthe mid-century inspired Montana,launched last autumn.

The show proved to be a great successfor Parker Knoll: new models and fabricswere greatly welcomed and existingmodels were praised for their fresh newlooks in luxurious new fabric collections.

Parker Knoll was positioned at thefront of Hall 1, with a show-stoppingBurlington Sofa from the ClassicCollection taking centre stage. Thesemodels are set to arrive on retailers’showrooms throughout the spring.Visit: www.parkerknoll.co.uk

Above: Newark in Harris Stripe, Check Caramel andYork chairs in Harris Stripe CaramelRight: Newark Grand pillow back and chair in PeruRuby, two-seater in Peru Stripe Ruby and Sinatra inDallas Tan

Seaton three-seater in Wickham Old Gold, chairs in WickhamPlaid Old Gold and Wickham Houndstooth Old Gold

New Tomkinson BerberMore weight, more colours

BEST OF BRITISH


I am Hugo I am EllaConsumer aspiration takes centre stage for Adam Carpets’ flagship range

You probably haven’t met Hugo and Ellayet, but they are the centrepiece ofAdam Carpets’ expansion of its FineWorcester Twist as it looks to meetconsumer aspirations rather than simplysell more carpet.

At The Flooring Show the companyannounced it would add colours to FineWorcester Twist, known for itsexceptional finish and array of colours.Ten colours will be launched this month.

‘These colours have been designedwith a totally new approach. We wanted10 colours that reflected new trends: cooland urban and warm and chic. By

introducing the characters of Hugo andElla, we want the customer to identifywith their traits and what they aspire tobe. Fine Worcester should be aboutluxury and quality. We think that we areall a bit of Hugo or a bit of Ella. Theyaren’t two people: they are all of us,’ saysEamonn Prescott, Adam Carpets salesand marketing director.

The launch of the colours will becombined with a presentation pack forits sales team. Each will have a moodboard with which to talk retailersthrough the trends, ideas and fashionsthat inspired the new colours.

‘This will be combined with speciallydesigned handouts for the retailer, whowill be able to show their customers thethoughts and inspirations behind thisstunning new collection.

‘Both Hugo and Ella will feature on thehandouts and the forthcoming PRcampaign. By introducing these namesand people to the carpet we are makingit more human. Yes, people choose carpeton colour, but we believe that customersalso choose on lifestyle. That is what wewant to achieve with Hugo and Ella,’ addsPrescott.Visit: www.adamcarpets.com

Hugo and Ella form thecentrepiece of the new colours

Consumers and retailers will be given information on the inspirations behindthe new colours

BEST OF BRITISH


Sweet Dreams incorporates technology in its latest beds

Sweet Dreams is catering for consumerswho look for something more out oftheir British-made bed. Two surround-sound bedframes – Ambience andVerve – tap into the zeitgeist for lifestylebeds with technology forming anintegral yet subtle part.

Each bed features two USB ports, oneon either side rail; a Bluetooth port in theheadboard; and speakers set in thefootend offering high sound quality.Comfort levels are also high – the bedscan be selected with either a sprung-slatted or an adjustable base, perfect forleisure lounging.

For those who prefer TV to surround-sound, Sweet Dreams manufactures fivefabric-upholstered TV beds. Three stylesof Vision bed – Classic, Chic and Sparkle –have proved popular for ottoman ordrawer storage styles, while Ella andGriffin, like the surround-sound beds,have an adjustable base as an option tosprung-slatted.

And for those who want neither soundnor pictures but simply a good night’ssleep in a good-looking, British-madebed, Sweet Dreams launched two fabric

Top: Ambiencesurround-sound bedAbove: Vision SparkleTV bed, shown asottomanRight: Gloriaupholstered frame

Sound sleep

upholstered frames in January. For anopulent, boudoir look there’s Gloria, withbutton tufting, while Suranne’s cleanlines murmur understated flair. All beds

are available from the Lancashiremanufacturer for store or home deliverywithin 10 working days.Visit: www.sweetdreamsuk.com

BEST OF BRITISH


Today andtomorrowUlster Carpets is investing inthe present and the future

Ulster Carpets boasts more than 75 yearsof carpet manufacturing experience andwhile the traditions of superior productquality, UK manufacturing and excellentcustomer service continue, the companyis focused on the future.

Its commitment is confirmed with therecent announcement of a £30minvestment into infrastructure at itsNorthern Ireland headquarters. This willinclude a new energy centre anddyehouse, which will not only enhanceproduct quality, but also reduce itscarbon footprint, in line with itsenvironmental ethos.

Depth and quality of design is also keyto Ulster Carpets’ plans for the future. Ithas recently launched a number ofranges including additions to the OpenSpaces Collection and the BohoCollection, while just in time for spring ithas added six colours to the York Wiltonrange. These muted neutral tones makethis range of plains even more extensive,taking the number of colourways to 44.

Designers keep their fingers on thepulse for interior trends, as shown withthe launch of the Braeburn plaid range.The timeless pattern has been combinedwith on-trend greys, heathery purples,petrol blues and mossy greens whichcome together to create a contemporary80/20 axminster that combines thewarmth and luxury of wool with thehardwearing properties of nylon, tocreate a floorcovering that can withstandextra heavy domestic wear.

As with all Ulster products, Braeburn is

available to order in colour matchingmulti-widths.

Ulster Carpets is the only company inthe UK and Republic of Ireland to offermulti-widths on all woven axminster andwilton stock ranges, with benefitsincluding reduced wastage and lowercosts for the consumer. All Ulsteraxminster ranges are offered in five

colour matching widths: 4.57m, 3.66m,2.74m, 1.83m and 0.91m, while all wiltonranges come in 5m, 4m, 3m, 2m and 1mmulti-widths.

The company has also recentlyrevamped its website and blog, keepingconsumers up to date with all the latestarrivals and interior trends. Visit: www.ulstercarpets.com

Above: Artist’simpression ofthe newdyehouseRight: BraeburnPetrelBelow: YorkWilton Squirrel

BEST OF BRITISH


Catwalk trends hit the floorBrintons’ designs remain at the forefront of fashionThis year’s interiors styles are inspired by trends coming straightfrom the catwalks and Brintons has long been at the forefront ofthe British design industry, developing all of its iconic residentialcarpets from its Kidderminster factory.

‘Renowned for creating the 80% wool/20% nylon blend, whichbecame industry standard, the tactile texture of this, coupledwith one of the season’s key trends, will make even the mostfaithful fan of hard flooring want to sink their toes into their veryown Brintons carpet,’ says Natalie Littlehales, Brintons consumermarketing manager.

Bell Twist, now celebrating its 50th year, has been constantlyupdated by Brintons since its conception in 1965, with coloursadded and removed to reflect changing trends. This means ifsomeone wants to create, for example, a monochrome schemeas seen at the Balmain and Givenchy Spring-Summer 2015shows, or a denim influenced design as seen at Stella McCartney,Gucci and Burberry, they can.

Brintons has always worked closely with the fashion world. In1993 it teamed up with Vivienne Westwood to create a dressmade from the Finepoint and Bell Twist carpet ranges. In 2003,the ‘Most luxurious carpets in the world’ campaign featuring BellTwist was launched, working with shoe designer Manolo Blahnik.

‘Further collaborations with iconic design brands such as LauraAshley and Timorous Beasties have resulted in collections withtimeless elegance and outstanding beauty, all exclusive toBrintons,’ she says.

‘Design is at the heart of everything Brintons produces. It is thekey ingredient to our continued success within the carpetindustry, and 2015 will be no different, with launches expectedthis spring,’ adds Littlehales. Visit: www.brintons.co.uk Padstow Surf Spot

Timorous Beasties’ Platinum Grain Du Bois Bell Twist Chalk

Impressive: water-resistant laminate from Quick-Step

Belgium

BELGIUM


Next generationTo ensure consistent high quality Quick-Step is producing its latest LVT inBelgium and has raised the bar for making laminate suitable for all rooms

Quick-Step parent Unilin has invested €45m in the group’s newLVT plant in Wielsbeke, Belgium, with a capacity to produce6million sqm a year. Production includes hourly laboratory testsand keeping the PVC horizontal during the process to reducestress and ensure stable LVT.

The company wants to ensure its LVT range upholds itsreputation in terms of product quality, and the new plantmeans it can control all aspects of production, rather then relyon imports from the Far East.

‘LVT is a product that is rapidly gaining popularity. This is animportant growth market to Unilin. However, we can’t leave halfof the job to someone else. We want full control over the entireproduction process, from raw materials to finished andpackaged planks. This is the only way we can achieve the resultswe want,’ says Pieter Buyck, Unilin LVT general manager.

Planks can contain up to 60% of recycled materials and onlybio-based and phthalate-free plasticisers are used.

Produced at the plant is Quick-Step’s second generation LVT,which will retail at a lower cost than the initial Livyn range. Thisuses the new Uniclic Multifit system to reduce fitting time byabout 30%. The drop-down technology provides extra strengththanks to the vertical and horizontal click locking and it can belocked into place with a push of the thumb. Profiles are notneeded when going from room to room. It has a Scratch Guardprotective top layer – even marker pen can be removed if actedon quickly.

The new Livyn is available with an extra matt finish in 24 newdecors. Balance Click and Balance Click+ (the contractspecification) have 125.1cm x 18.7cm planks and Ambient Clickand Ambient Click+ has 32cm x 65cm tiles. Accessoriesincluding underlay, skirting boards and tools are also available.

Livyn Vintage Chestnut Light

Livyn Cottage Oak Naturel

Livyn Canyon Oak Warm Grey

BELGIUM


Alongside the updated LVT, the Impressive and ImpressiveUltra (the contract specification) water-resistant laminatecollections were debuted at Domotex with 16 decors, includingthe Scandinavian-inspired Natural Pine (1860), Concrete (1861)and Burned Planks (1862).

Inspiration for Burned Planks was the Japanese practise ofhanging burnt pine outside homes to repel insects. Quick-Step’sdesign team was able to treat the surface of the wood with aburner and apply varnish but couldn’t scan it as the woodbroke. But the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam has developeda scanning technique called reliefography to scan paintings,and Quick-Step used a similar technique to scan the structureand gain a black floor with a unique and un precedentedstructure of burnt wood.

Working alongside the Quick-Step design team, the researchand development team was determined to create laminatesuitable for use in all rooms, including bathrooms and kitchens.‘We wanted our new laminate floors to be fully resistant toexposure to water and other liquids,’ says Laurent Meersseman,Quick-Step research and development director.

‘So we developed a technology that presses the floor’s jointsinto the surface layer during production. And on top of that, theHydroSeal finish keeps out the tiniest drop.’

Using the same material for both surface and bevel alsomakes the floors anti-static and fully chemical-resistant. Dirt anddust don’t cling to the surface, making the floor easier to cleanand maintain and suitable for high traffic areas, such asbathrooms, kitchens and entrance halls.

‘The floors don’t just keep water out, they also offer a unique,authentic look,’ he says.

Edges are no longer a single shade that closely resembles thefloor’s dominant colour. Its bevel technology ensures the woodgrain, colour and structure of the planks blend seamlessly alongall sides.

‘The result is so authentic and true to nature. Each plankcomes with a different bevel, subtly adapted to the look andfeel of its wood grain. Thanks to this genuine, modified shape ofthe bevel, the designs of the Impressive and Impressive Ultrafloors are unique in every way,’ adds Meersseman.Visit: www.quick-step.co.uk

Impressive Ultra Scraped Oak Grey Brown

Impressive Ultra Oak Grey with saw cuts

Impressive Burned Planks

BELGIUM


Time to have some funThis year’s launches put the playfulness back into vinylRanges based on the theme of play forma major part of Avenue and Leoline’s2015 introductions.

‘Home interiors can be more cheerfulagain, so we have researched a lot withcolours and patterns. The AvenueBubblegum and Liquorice collectionfocuses on playful design ideal for kidsand teenagers including letters, streetmaps, jigsaw pieces and paint splashes,’says Victoria Hemelaer, Leoline andAvenue Floors product manager.

Alphabet comes in one colour andmonochrome; York is a large diamond inmonochrome or red and white; Cortilehas a new gloss finish; City has anabstract street map look; Pieces hasjigsaw shapes and Sagres is a geometricdesign in monochrome and grey andwhite.

The Ultimate Minerals collection wassucceeded by Ultimate Elements,including three new colours for FrenchLimestone, two for Rapallo Marble andfive for Galerie including grey.

Leoline also updated Tile Styles withnew colours including a grey/blue/green

mix for Isis and a light black forAlhambra. Woodmark saw theintroduction of the Toulouseherringbone design in three colours;Azur, an aged painted pine look andCardassian, a Scandinavian pine design.

In other launches, Alice is a newcollection of five infinite decors rangingfrom marble to wool and wood.

‘This romantic, dreamy collection isbased on the fantasy world of Alice inWonderland with nothing but the skylineas a joint. In contrast, the more rugged,concrete look of Concreto offers abeautiful colour palette,’ she adds.

The new Scripto design in this

collection caters to the emerging trendof using letters and text in interiors.

‘The continuing retro revival in the tileindustry is the subject of the new Cube-Itcollection, which aims to strike a balancebetween form, structure and colour. Ifyou are crazy about bright colours, youwill love the Blush collection in white,black or grey but also colours like lushlime, pretty pink and posh purple. Withits protective PU coating, the Blushcollection is suitable for residentialcustomers as well as stand builders orevent agencies,’ Hemelaer explains.Visit: www.leoline.co.ukwww.avenuefloors.co.uk

Right: Leoline’sSpotted Gum fromChanging RoomzBelow: Avenue’sSagres fromBubblegum &LiquoriceBelow right:Avenue’s Sand fromUltimate Elements

www.avenuefl oors.co.uk

a brand of

BUBBLEGUM

&LIQ

UORICE

NEWDE

SIGNS

FOR 20

15!

STYLE, QUALITY & VALUE

MAKE YOUR MARK WITH AVENUE

IN 2015!

BELGIUM


TransformersModuleo’s LVT offer is taking a more artistic routeModuleo is extending its Transformcollection, in line with its next generationof products, this spring. It has headed ina more artistic direction with theseproducts to provide more abstract andleft-field options.

The collection is a development of theexisting Transform range and will featureeight new designs in 42 colour options.

‘We have created the products as areaction to where we believe the marketis heading and to delve further into thecommercial sector. We have furtherreinforced our “close to nature” ethoswith some of the products, while alsooffering a number of much softer,warmer and urban/contemporarycolours,’ says David Bigland, Moduleo UKand Eire md.

All Moduleo products contain up to55% recyclable material of verified originand are themselves recyclable andproduced at its plant in Avelgem,Belgium.

‘We’re extremely confident the new

range and products will be a real success– and cannot wait to showcase them toour customers this month and we’reanticipating them to go down extremelywell – particularly with those looking tomake a statement with their flooring,’ hesays.

Bigland says the company isoverwhelmed by the success of itsImpress range, highlighting the demandfor more natural looking products. Itcomprises five designs in 22 colouroptions.

‘Each of the designs in the range aretruly authentic and provide an uncannyresemblance to real wood but with anumber of added benefits includingincreased durability and excellent heatinsulation. We are proud to be flying theflag for eco-friendly flooring, not onlywith our manufacturing processes but byoffering consumers realistic designswithout placing a burden on naturalwood stocks,’ adds Bigland.Visit: www.moduleo.co.uk Transform Fazino Maple 28950

Transform Latin Pine 24142 Transform Steel Rock 46940

BELGIUM


IVC’s future-proof investment doesnot forget the group’s main focusIVC Group, owner of the Moduleo,Leoline, Avenue, Balterio and ITECbrands, continues to invest in its facilitiesand environmental credentials.

It has constructed a fully-automatedwarehouse close to the Moduleo plant inAvelgem, Belgium, that has space for10,500 pallets of LVT planks or tiles. Aconveyor bridge transports the LVT fromthe plant to the warehouse, whichoperates 24 hours a day.

‘We expect a lot from Moduleo in thefuture. This warehouse was built tofuture-proof Moduleo by ensuringautomated storage. With a peak volumeof about 100,000sqm per day, we will beable to store about 1million sqm ofModuleo products in the warehouse,’says Jan Vergote, IVC Group ceo.

Avelgem is also the home of thegroup’s €10m wind farm with three windturbines expected to produce 13,3GWh ayear; equivalent to the annual electricityuse of more than 2,000 families or a thirdof IVC’s energy consumption.

‘Design, functionality and ecologyhave been our focus from day one, andwe’re delighted that the turbines are now

operational so wecan expand on thesevalues,’ adds FilipBalcaen, IVCchairman.

It also uses waterfrom the nearbyScheldt river as acoolant, reducing by80% the use of lessenvironmentallyfriendly coolants.

In the US,construction of its$80m LVT plant inDalton, Georgia – where IVC built its vinylplant in 2011 – is nearing completion.The 3million sqft facility is due to be fullyoperational in the second quarter of theyear, employing 200 staff.

‘Just as we proved with vinyl, we willagain demonstrate with LVT ourcapability to deploy state of the artmanufacturing technology and combineit with operational excellence. Buildingthe plant in the US will mean that 100%of IVC US’s LVT will be American made,’says Xavier Steyaert, IVC US co-ceo.

Since Balcaen founded the group in1997 after selling Balta, IVC has grownevery year, with sales and staff numbersincreasing tenfold in the past 15 years.Last year sales reached €605m with 1,200staff as it operates in 110 countries.

In January Balcaen agreed to sell thegroup to Mohawk Industries, Quick-Stepowner and already the world’s largestflooring company, for $1.2bn. Thetransaction is expected to be completedat the end of March.Visit: www.ivcgroup.com

DesignFunctionEcology

Above: The Moduleowarehouse can hold10,500 pallets of LVTTop left: The plant andwarehouse are connectedby a conveyor bridgeLeft: IVC’s wind farm

BELGIUM


Splash, bang, wallopParcolys’ laminate range is strong and waterproof

Dominique Santens almost fizzes withexcitement when he describes ParcolysFlooring’s latest range, Ceramics byAquastep, and how the waterprooflaminate compares with LVT products onthe market.

Santens joined as manager 19 monthsago and last November bought thecompany from its founder.

‘The strength of the click is so muchstronger than anything else available,meaning the planks will not move and it will last much longer. Such is thestrength of the plank it hides unevennessin the floor, especially with the AquaBase underlay. The backing uses thesame PVC as in windows so there is noVOC emissions as well as being verystrong,’ he says.

It is easy to remove stains, such asshoe marks and maintenance is easy –just wipe with soap and water. It’s alsosuitable for underfloor heating with heatresistance of more than 40°C. There is noindentation from furniture and it’s ratedR10 for slip resistance.

BELGIUM


He says: ‘It feels as if you are walkingon a solid floor with no give.’

Available in 592mm x 297mm planks,with 1,200mm x 297mm planks in theprocess of being introduced, Ceramics by Aquastep can also be installed up to15m x 15m without an expansion joint.

‘Because it is manufacturedhorizontally, rather than in rolls, there is no risk of curling so it can be used in areas where LVT has traditionallyperformed poorly, such asconservatories,’ explains Santens.

New finishes include Copper Loft,Concrete and Anthracite. And thanks tothe pushdown click on the short side, itcan also be used on walls.

‘Transforming a bathroom is now easy,as it can be glued straight on to tiledwalls without having to take off the tiles,’he says.

Parcolys’ original Aquastep planks arenow available in 15 decors while theAquastep Mini tiles are offered in threecolours.Visit: www.parcolysflooring.be

Ceramics by Aquastep is suitable for all rooms and issupported by POS

4. 5.

1.

2.

Traditions for lifeWith the collectionsTradition Elegant, TraditionQuattro, Tradition Sculptureand Tradition Sapphire,Balterio sets the standardin 9 mm high qualitylaminate flooring.

WAKKENSTEENWEG 37B

DISCOVER THE NEW 328 BARN OAK AND 001 WILD MESQUITE IN TRADITION SCULPTURE AND FEEL THE WARMTH OF AN INTERIORTOUCHED BY NATURE. THE �� GIVES THIS LAMINATE THE LOOK AND FEEL OF USED WOODEN FLOORS MARKED WITH SAW CUTS.

3.

2.

1. Tradition Elegant, 706 Barley Oak 2. Tradition Sapphire, 090 Yukon Teak 3. Tradition Sculpture, 134 Sutton Hickory 4. Tradition Sculpture, 001 Wild Mesquite5. Tradition Sapphire, 089 Malt Teck6. Tradition Sculpture, 328 Barn Oak 7. Tradition Quattro, 925 Cévennes Oak

4.

6.

5.

7.

Warmand crafted

decors reflectatraditional

look

B-8710 SINT-BAAFS-VIJVE - BELGIË - T. +32 56 62 80 81 - [email protected] - WWW.BALTERIO.COM

BELGIUM


Grand scale flooringBeaulieu Flooring Solutions made more than 2,000 introductions in Hannover Beaulieu Flooring Solutions launched2,045 SKUs across its vinyl, vinyl plank,carpet, parquet, laminate, artificial grassand needle felt collections at Domotexand used many of them in four globalmindset areas: Spirit, Future, Folk andOrigin. The new collections are built uparound the mindsets.

Beauflor will incorporate elements of

the 69 decor Wood Collection in the UK specific Ultragrip collection in May. Ultragrip will have four new ranges,partly drawing from the three WoodCollection ranges: Authentic, cosy rustic designs; Urban, contemporarywoods in an urban colour palette; and Classic.

Marathon is a collection of timber

planks and tiles, with a Power Bacbacking and 0.35mm wear layer.

Spectrum is a high-fashion, uni-coloured collection with 20 colours,from eye-catching primaries, like yellowand blue, to the more muted tones ofsoft grey and light beige.

BerryAlloc has moved vinyl plankproduction to Belgium. Pure features

ORIGIN: The speed of today’s society sometimes overwhelms us. Inresponse we search for a slowness, genuine experiences and sensibility. Wecrave contact with nature. And so we choose a weekend of rambling in thewoods over yet another city trip. Going back to the essential, to what hasperhaps been lost in modern society. A touch of nostalgia, but that’s whatwe like: items from the past, vinyl records, materials with patina, decorationwith a soul and story. We appreciate everything local and authentic. Colours include a lot of brown, green and stone with rough textures such asbark, earth and fur.

SPIRIT: There is an information overload. We are continuously available: atwork, on the road, in the car, or at home. Even at the weekend, from earlymorning to late at night. When we come home we want to relax for a whileand make time for ourselves: for our thoughts and emotions, for who we are,for our spirit. Take a break from the busy world and enter a space that offersus peace. A space where we are not being drained, but where we can givevoice to our intuition. In that space materials, colours and texturescontribute to an environment that gives us inner energy. Colours are soft and dreamy, with the emphasis on mild pastel colours,beige and grey. The textures are soft, sometimes weathered but alwaysnatural. The inspiration comes from skin, marble, porous materials, linen withor without a hint of erosion.

FUTURE: We live in adigital world. Apps, 3Dprinting, smartphones,smart watches, drones –technology is evolving atan accelerated rate and wewant to keep up. We arelooking only to the future:to technology that canimprove our lives; toscientific solutions andnew materials withunprecedentedopportunities, such asgraphene. The style ofinteriors is aligned to that:it is innovative, clean andhigh-tech, with a penchantfor cutting edge designand futuristic materials. Colours are innovative andooze high-tech. Theemphasis is on purple,blue and orange, on thebasis of quieter colours.Techno materials withspecial textures arecombined with micro ormacro motifs.

FOLK: We are youngand creative and choosean ecological yet trendylifestyle. You can find usanywhere in the world onblogs and social media.We are the hippies oftoday, without borders,always on the move. Wehave a DIY mentality andare fascinated bycraftsmanship. We pluckour inspiration from art,design and food. Weshare, sample and remixto our heart’s contentand make it our own.Simple yet cleverinnovations are our thing. Colours are bright, butnever artificial. Thematerials look like theywere hand-made. Wood,reed and soft or toughwoven textures play animportant role.

BELGIUM


Rigid Composite Board technology solittle or no subfloor is needed and can beinstalled on top of tiled floors. It has anacoustic top layer and comes ingluedown or click versions.

The click version uses the DreamClicksystem for quick fitting and comes in twoqualities: Pure Click 40 with a 0.4mmwear layer and Pure Click 55 with a0.55mm wear layer. Gluedown plankscome in the Pure 55 version. It isavailable in several tile and plank sizes.

Along with 43 new decors, threeranges were added to BerryAlloc’slaminate offer: Serenity features a vinyltop layer for reduced noise; Chic andUrban have ranges of narrow planks. The

full High-Tech laminate collection hasbeen upgraded to class 34, suitable forcontract use.

The brand also debuted three parquetranges. Lodge has a raw cut appearancein 1,900mm x 190mm x 15mm and 2,800x 260mm x 20mm (XL) sizes and sixcolours.

Emotions is inspired by the softness ofwood with a matt lacquered finish andsaw cut detailing.

Cosmo includes Ash, American Walnut and Sapele. Seven oak colourswere also introduced, increasing thenumber to 44.

Ideal developed a new generation ofsupersoft carpets in polyamide: Satine

presents dense saxony and shaggyconstructions in plain and chromojetoverprinted versions. The plains come invibrant colours and the prints are tonal.Its solution dyed offer was expandedwith the polyester Spectrum range’sLucca, Monza and Sienna.

Real launched ‘noodle’ doormats. ThesePVC mats, which look like they are madeof spaghetti, have seven standardcolours and two sizes, 50cm x 80cm and40cm x 60cm.

The Turfgrass collection of landscapinggrass was unveiled and Oryzon domesticartificial grass saw more colour optionsand new constructions. Visit: www.beaulieuflooringsolutions.com

Noble parquet

Elements of the Wood Collection will be included in Beauflor’s new Ultragripcollection Pure vinyl planks

Elegance laminate

BELGIUM


Divine interventionLano is focusing onits Premium EasyCare CollectionKnown for its Easy Care and Ultimocollections, the launch of Divine Twist,a 75oz deep pile saxony, sees LanoCarpets driving interest in its PremiumEasy Care Collection, a range ofcarpets designed to deliver worry-freestain resistance in a more resilient anddurable Lanoset two-ply yarn.

Use of 100% polypropylene Lanosetfibre, heat-set to offer better durabilityand also to give a wool-likeappearance, helps give justice to itspremium moniker while providingconsumers with the reassurance of ableach cleanable low maintenancecarpet. Backed by a 10-year stainguarantee and with an Extra HeavyDomestic rating, Divine Twist issuitable for use in the busiest of familyhomes.

Divine Twist comes in 4m and 5mwidths.

‘The Premium Easy Care Collectionoffers our very finest stain-resistantqualities so that retailers can offertheir customers luxurious carpet thatis also worry-free,’ says Birger Karlsson,Lano sales director UK. ‘Providing analternative to the worry of wool andwool-rich blends, Divine Twist is alsoexcellent value, a carpet that istypically Lano.’

Divine Twist is available in 10shades, with a grey theme runningthroughout

‘As we once saw with beige, thedemand for grey means that rangesneed to be more sophisticated in theirapproach to the colour, offeringhomeowners more choice, from lightshades through to rich velvet hues.Divine Twist explores the potential ofthe palette beautifully,’ explains Birger. Visit: www.lano.com

Divine Twist

For more information about any of our product range contact us at: [email protected]

Introducing 4 stunning new ranges - the choice is endless

ELEMEnTS SENSATIONS ESSENTIALS GALLERY

BELGIUM


Balta Group is to significantly increaseinvestment this year after enjoying adouble-digit leap in profits last year asowner Doughty Hanson looks to sell thecompany after a decade of ownership.

The group is to increase investment by€5bn to €31bn this year, includingproduction in Belgium and Turkey, POSand sampling. Profits jumped by 15% assales rose by 2% to €577m.

Philippe Hamers, Balta residentialbroadloom division general manager,says the group had an excellent year in2014. ‘We grew by more than 10% in theUK and gained market share and we areahead of our forecast for this year.’

‘Upgrading our products in 2014helped to boost performance and we willcontinue with this this year,’ says GeertVanden Bossche, Balta marketingdirector. ‘More and more better qualityproducts are in development withdemand for better end productsincreasing, which is where Balta wants tobe. Soft and shiny carpets continue to bepopular and we will be expanding thiswith heavier weight ranges.

‘We were rewarded by our customersfor our service levels last year as they bought more. We have said we want to be the most reliable supplierand will be increasing warehousingspace for polypropylene rolls

Above: TynedaleTwistInset: PhilippeHamersRight: RoyalOxford

High flying carpetsUpgrading products has brought rewards for Balta

��

The most importanttwist of all.

www.baltagroup.com

The new Paramount Twist. Sumptuous underfoot, durable, resilient and with guaranteed stain resistance for 15-years thanks to two-ply X-Tron® yarn, this is a carpet serious about performance. Available in 12 on-trend colours and four and

BELGIUM


The four designs in oak, maple, walnutand pine are available in severalcolourways, make for different layoutswith colour variety, popping tonalascents, intermingled patterns, contrastsand highlights; with four designs andfour colourways for each the choice isthere for the taking.

‘We’ve created Mix to the Max to bringa new dimension to carpet for the home.Neatly packaged for an off-the-shelfsolution, Mix to the Max allows

from 35,000 to 40,000 rolls,’ he says.Hamers insists that it is business as

usual for the group during the saleprocess. ‘We’ve been with DoughtyHanson for 10 years [Doughty Hansonbought Balta in August 2004 in a dealwhich valued it at €600m] so peoplehave probably been saying we’ve beenfor sale for the past seven. Whoeverwants to buy Balta will come with agrowth plan. We have a strong backboneand will have an even stronger backbone[under new ownership]. It will be betterfor Balta and better for our customers.We definitely want to invest to grow inthe UK, perhaps even with an acquisitionto consolidate.’

Products shown at Balta’s autumnroadshow and Domotex will beintroduced between now and the end ofJune, with Saxon King and Pop Art thefirst. Pop Art will follow the example ofBig Hit by having a large display book.Noble Heathers will debut in May andTynedale Twist in June.

Mix to the Max puts aside theconstraints of the 50cm x 50cm carpettile and, inspired by wood flooring, usesa 100cm x 25cm dimension to offervirtually limitless design and layoutcombinations. With underfoot comfort,thermal and acoustic insulation andresistance to wear and stains, Mix to theMax carpet planks use 100% StainSafeyarn.

Left: Mix tothe MaxRight: LothianWool BerberBelow: NobleHeathers

homeowners the chance to enjoy risk-free experimentation, something otherfloorcoverings simply struggle toachieve. Should a combination not beworking, simply lift, swap and replace.This easy replacement also comes inhandy on the off-chance that an areabecomes stained or soiled beyond repair,just lift and replace,’ says VandenBossche.

The Royal Oxford saxony uses Balta’s X-Tron fibre and comes in a 64oz weightwith a 14mm pile height. Available in 4mand 5m widths and 12 colours, it has 15-year wear and 20-year stain warranties.

Royal Sovereign uses the WoolmasterFibre and is available in Super (37oz),Deluxe (53oz) and Supreme (65oz)qualities, in 12 plain colours and in 4mand 5m widths and a stripe in threecoordinating colours in a 4m width.

Lothian Wool Berber is made from100% British Wool in eight plain stylesavailable in 4m and 5m widths with fourcoordinating stripes in a 4m width.

The StainSafe Noble Heathers has 10colours in 4m and 5m widths whileTynedale Twist has 12.

Other launches coming over the nextfew months include Traffic, Heather Twistand Mystic Wilton in June; Urban Legendwill be updated in April, while SwaledaleTwist, a heavier version of Tynedale, willbe introduced in September.Visit: www.baltagroup.com

BELGIUM


Showing offStoracon has added more display optionsRug display specialist Storacon has had a busy past 12 months developingproducts and seeing growth at Domotex,where it also exhibits.

Domotex saw 60 exhibitors use itsdisplay equipment, an increase of five on2014: as well as selling displays, Storaconalso hires them for exhibitions.

After debuting a display for children’srugs at Domotex 2014, the company has added new models in recent months, according to Filip van Acker,Storacon md.

‘We have developed a gondolashelving system that is easy to puttogether and can be used forpromotions, for example without havingto have a permanent display orrearranging the store,’ he says.

The company, part of French displayand storage group Provost, has alsodeveloped a rug display that can hold 50 large rugs for a major rug company’sshowroom in Belgium.

It is also developing a lighter displaystand that will be easier to transport.

Thanks to Storacon’s expertise andscale it can offer bespoke systems forretailers where their premises are not

suitable for its standard displays, forexample where ceilings are too low.

The company continues to target theupmarket segment with its quality offerrather than low end products.

‘A number of customers who switchedto low end racks have come back as theyonly lasted two to three years andproved to be more expensive in the end,’he explains.

‘We’ve seen an increase in thepopularity of sliding rail systemscompared withbook displays as itis far easier, quickerand less effort tolook at the rugs.’

As well as rugdisplays, Storaconoffers systems forcarpet rolls andwarehouses – itprovides the rollsystem forMillenniumWeavers’ rollwarehouse.Visit: www.carpetdisplays.com

A major rugcompany has a 50-rug display fromStoracon

Filip van Acker says sliding rail systems arebecoming more popular

BELGIUM


Affordable authenticityUnilin’s latest planks bring wood styling to a wider market

Consumers want the look and feel of realwood in their homes, but are deterred byits price. To counter this, Belgian retailerPecceu Kitchens and Custom InteriorDesign has turned to Unilin Panels’ latestEvola planks.

‘Customers find authenticityincreasingly important. That is why woodis so popular,’ says Yves Pecceu, Pecceumanager. ‘The final price tag often putspeople off. Wood is quite simply a veryexpensive material.’

Unilin came up with a solution thatcombines the demand for authenticitywith an affordable price.

‘There are plenty of alternatives towood on the market, but the Evoladesigns are the most lifelike imitation ofwood as far as I am concerned. Only aspecialist would see the difference,’ hereckons.

Evola is more cost-effective than wood,but has an authentic feel thanks to theimitated grain, knots, vessels and cracks.The planks are available in Royal Oak,Heritage Oak and Minnesota Oak designsand 10 colours.

‘Evola is perfectly suited to customwork. The decorative top layer is appliedto extremely strong chipboard. I can saw,shape or process them easily with a CNCmachine. Evola is also particularly well-suited to corner work or slantedapplications and, of course, it’s easy tokeep clean with a quick wipe of themelamine,’ explains Pecceu.

Visitors will see Evola throughout thestore which has13,000sqft of displaysincluding kitchens, walk-in wardrobesand a complete flat.

‘We try to anticipate trends. Evola isbound to become a household name.That is why we want our customers toget to know this new application. Asample does not tell you anything:customers only really get to know theproduct in recognisable applicationssuch as a bedroom or kitchen. They areusually surprised when I tell them they itis not real wood they can feel beneaththeir fingers,’ adds Pecceu.Visit: www.unilinpanels.com Left: Heritage Oak in medium brown

Evola Royal Oak in darkbrown

BELGIUM


The panel gameUnilin produces around 25million sqmof melamine panels a year

Wood is not only a renewable rawmaterial, but also its reuse as a secondaryraw material has a favourable effect onemissions. So what goes into making thepanels?

The industry draws on various types ofwood products as the basic raw material.This timber mix consists of trunks, woodscraps, sawdust and reclaimed timber.Fresh wood arriving in large sections isbroken down in a chopper, which canprocess 100tonnes an hour, into 5cm x5cm pieces. When a tree is sawn, only50% can be usefully used as planks andthe side faces (slabs) and the sawdustserve as fresh wood for Unilin.

The differently sourced wood is thenmixed together and chopped into chipsand dehydrated, then dust and aerosolparticles from the water vapour areremoved. The chips’ humidity of 50%-60% is reduced to a maximum of 3%

after 20 minutes in the dryer.The dehydrated chips are then sifted

until there are four types: dust is used asfuel for the drum dryer; fine chips areused as the surface sheet on the bottomand top surface of the chipboards; coarsechips are used as the core sheet of thechipboard and very coarse chips arecrushed and resifted.

Quality checks are made duringproduction, during finishing operationsand at the plant’s laboratory. Duringmanufacturing, the panel materials aretested on a range of differentparameters: density; tensile strength;bending strength; surface tensionstrength; screw pull-out force; humidity;swelling and formaldehyde content.

After final impurities are removed the chips are mixed with glue. Thedehydrated surface sheet chips and coresheet chips are separately mixed with a

glue and hardening mixture. The gluemixture may be adapted if specificproperties are needed.

The chipboards are given their firstsurface sheet, a coarser core sheet and atop surface sheet on a forming belt.Surface sheet spreaders spray fine chipsthat make up the sealed top and bottomsurface of the panel. Core sheetspreaders spray larger sized chips thatlend the chipboard its strength andsolidity. The chipboard ‘cake’ that isproduced is then fed into a press.

After the cold prepressing process, thechipboard cake is preheated and thenfed through the press where it is giventhe required thickness and density byapplying pressure and heat. The pressingprocess causes the glue to harden. Thechipboard receives more than30,000tonnes of pressure as it travelsacross the press at about three-quartersof walking pace.

The chipboard is then cut into 6mlengths for ease of handling.

After they have been left to acclimatisefor a few hours, the panels are ready tobe sanded by three grades of sandpaperto the required thickness. Each panel ischecked for any faults, by visualinspection and an automated controlunit.

After being sawn to the required size,the bottom and the top of the panels arecovered with an impregnated papersheet. Ionising the paper makes it stickbetter before it goes into the press for 15seconds. The melamine resin startsrunning into the paper and starts setting,which sees the paper firmly attaching tothe panel. At the same time, a chromedpress head (comparable to a large waffleiron) gives the panel a specific texture.

Unilin offers its customers a number ofwood textures – the darker the decor, thelonger the presses – however each presshead costs €100,000.

After melamining, the panels areseparated and the excess paper edgesare milled out. This is followed by aquality check whereby an operatorappraises each panel separately,checking whether the setting andbonding meet quality standards.

Finally, the panels are stacked andpacked, before they are taken to thefinished products warehouse or furtherprocessed into furniture or home interiorpanels.Visit: www.unilinpanels.com

Raw materials go throughseveral productionprocesses before themelamine panels emerge

Beds and bedroom

BEDS AND BEDROOM


Comfortable partnershipSealy and the British Chiropractic Association have a new partnershipA bed needs to be a place of comfortrather than a source of pain anddiscomfort, so whether it’s buying for thefirst time or replacing an old mattress,Sealy Posturepedic and the BritishChiropractic Association share a commongoal in their ambition to encourage theBritish public to make the right choiceswhen buying a new bed in an effort toimprove everyone’s back health.

Sealy and BCA have worked togetherfor the past few years and now Sealy isannouncing a new partnership topromote their common objectives.

Chiropractors are primary contacthealth professionals specialising in thediagnosis, treatment, prevention andoverall management of many conditionsthat are due to problems with bones,joints, ligaments, tendons and nerves,especially related to the spine.

The BCA is the largest and longest-

standing association for chiropractors inthe UK. Chiropractic treatment and careoffers hands-on pain management andmainly involves safe, often gentle spinalmanipulation to free joints in the spineor other areas of the body that are notmoving properly.

Apart from manipulation,chiropractors may use a wide variety of techniques to help their clients as well as offering advice about posture and lifestyle, and sleep can be a big part of this.

‘The partnership is further evidence ofour continued commitment to providinghealthy, orthopaedically correct beds. Asa result customers, both trade andconsumer and those in the hospitalitysector, can rest well knowing Sealycontinues to be at the forefront ofdevelopments in healthy sleep,’ says NeilRobinson, Sealy marketing director.

‘Our commitment to cutting edgesleep technology is well known and hasresulted in the development ofmattresses that support and provide arestorative and relaxing night’s sleep.Posturepedic as a brand is synonymouswith being the sought after bed for thediscerning purchaser who understandsthat having a mattress that is bothcomfortable and supportive is critical fora night’s sleep to keep the spine properlyaligned and prevent tossing and turningor waking up with aches and pains,’ hesays.

The latest development to come fromSealy’s commitment to these objectivesis the new Profile range. Ergonomic inconcept, the Contour mattress is basedon various anthropometric studies whichdetail and profile the proportions of thehuman anatomy. Directional and variablezoning along its length from head

Profile mattresses have a convexzone, that isn’t immediately visible,but your back will feel the benefits

��

Sealy are proud to announce the forging ofa new partnership with the British ChiropracticAssociation.

Chiropractic is a primary health-care profession that specialises in

the diagnosis, treatment and overall management of conditions that

are due to problems with the joints, ligaments, tendons and nerves,

especially related to the spine. The BCA is the largest and longest-

standing association for chiropractors in the UK.

This partnership is further evidence of our continued commitment

to providing healthy, orthopaedically correct beds. You can rest well

knowing Sealy continue to be at the forefront of developments in

healthy sleep.

For more information on our orthopaedically correct beds,

contact our Sales Hotline on 016973 20342.

Visit our website at www.sealy.co.uk

or the BCA website at www.chiropractic-uk.co.uk

BEDS AND BEDROOM


to toe means the mattress doesn’t everhave to be turned, and the mattress paysspecial attention to offering exactly theright support to the head, shoulders andhips, which are the key pressure pointsthat cause tossing and turning at night.

‘There are two areas of increasedsupport to ensure the neck and spine arekept at exactly the right alignmentthroughout the night. It is these keyareas of support that make this new andspecial bed so different,’ says Robinson.

‘When you lie down on a Profile bed,you can actually feel the slightly convexzone which sits laterally across themattress and is just perfect forsupporting the spine, whether you arelying on your side or your back, so thisbed is a boon to anyone who feels theneed for more support as they sleep, orindeed anyone who occasionally orpermanently suffers from back problems,

or wishes to prevent one fromdeteriorating,’ he adds.

In addition, although not quite aspronounced as the convex torso zone,the subtly convex head area is designedso users don’t need more than one goodpillow to support their head: a far betterarrangement for the user’s neck as ithelps keep it better aligned with theirspine to prevent waking up with back orneck ache in the morning.

With the BCA saying that 48% ofpeople say sleeping caused them neck orback pain, there is a need for people toget themselves a properly supportive aswell as comfortable bed, adds Robinson.

‘Testers who have already trialled thenew Profile range are ecstatic at thebenefits they have gotten from it rightfrom their very first night’s sleep. Theconvex zones are not instantly visibleunless you look for them, but when you

lie down on the bed your body caninstantly feel and appreciate thedifference,’ he says.

The beds also feature Adaptivetechnology, a dynamic response textilethat reacts to temperature and moisture.Hydro-functional polymers changeshape, boosting evaporation and helpingto maintain a constant temperature forthe sleeper, even through the sheets.

‘With this new 21st century textiletechnology included in Sealy’s renownedSmart Fibres, which are also in thematerial covering the mattress and whichare endorsed by Allergy UK, even themost fussy of sleepers will revel in thecomfort as well as the support of thisnew style of bed,’ says Robinson.

The range has two beds: the mediumsupport Contour Reflexion mattress andthe slightly firmer Contour Support.Visit: www.sealy.co.uk

Contour Reflexion

Contour Support

www.sealy.co.uk

A unique combination of Geltex and Springs.All the pressure relief you would find in a memory foam mattress combined

with all the support you’d expect from a Sealy Posturepedic.

BEDS AND BEDROOM


Drawing on more than 60 years of experience, Silentnight’s bed-making process is still relatively traditional and carefully consideredto provide the perfect sleep solution. But, the manufacturerembraces new technology and continuously invests in new producttesting and development to ensure consumers receive qualityproducts.

Its latest collection is no exception. The Diamond Collection hasbeen updated to be what it says is its most luxurious range of bedsand mattresses. Every mattress in the premium range usesSilentnight’s Mirapocket spring system for comfort and support.

‘All products in the Diamond range are traditionally hand-madein the UK and feature sumptuous natural fillings to create theultimate in luxury. The Diamond 4000 Pocket Memory Woolfeatures a triple layer 4,000 Mirapocket advanced system for adeeper, more luxurious mattress offering ultimate support. Thenatural memory wool comfort filling provides superior comfort andhas handles and air vents for maximum airflow,’ says GraceMoorhouse, Silentnight brand marketing manager.

There is a range of base and headboard options, an ottoman anda selection of colours to appeal to those looking for superior styleand luxury as well as a great night’s sleep.

‘Having been a trusted brand for over 60 years, we are incrediblyproud of our British manufacturing credentials. Each Silentnightbed and mattress is put through rigorous testing to ensure thebrand consistently exceeds British manufacturing standards, whichgives consumers the assurance of quality and firmly placesSilentnight as the UK manufacturer of choice,’ stresses Moorhouse.Visit: www.silentnight.co.uk

Sleep’s best friendSilentnight’s updated Diamond Collection is its most luxurious range yet

Diamond 4000, as with all Silentnight beds, undergoes tough testing

SLEEP HAS NEVERFELT SO GOOD

The stunning Geltex mattress collection from Silentnight deliveringtriple benefits and the ultimate in support for a great night’s sleep.

Available with a choice of stylish base and headboards.

To find out more about our Geltex mattress collection contact your local area manager,our dedicated customer contact centre on 01282 851111 or visit silentnight.co.uk/Geltex

BEDS AND BEDROOM


The comfort of scienceMore than 100 years of expertise goes into Kaymed’s latest models

Kaymed has more than a century’s expertise at the forefront ofsleep technology and is a leading innovator in the gel andviscoelastic memory foam sectors, using its knowledge and newmaterials to help provide the perfect night’s sleep. Kaymed isthe only foam manufacturer in Ireland and develops beddingand components using cutting edge technology.

It has launched several materials developed, manufacturedby and exclusive to Kaymed, including advances in gel andviscoelastic technologies, all designed to combine comfort,industry leading pressure relief and sleep surface temperatureregulation.

Mighty Bed Summit

Therma-Phase Deluxe

K3Gel Gold

Therma-Phase is a significant step forward for the companyas it combines a high density viscoelastic with an infusion ofunique phase-change gel crystals. The gel works constantly toabsorb, store and release body heat to maintain the ideal sleepsurface temperature of 30°C-32°C. ‘The result is an innovativematerial that provides the body with the optimum level ofcomfort, support and pressure relief – essential for a restfulnight’s sleep,’ says Jeremy Navrady, Kaymed UK marketingmanager.

Therma-Phase offers a choice of pocket springs or as a solidblock with optional base tensions, base colours, sizes anddrawers.

‘K3Gel is a revolutionary therapeutic sleep system patentedby Kaymed that provides superior comfort and dispersespressure through its unique three-dimensional cell structure.Manufactured using natural mineral oils, K3Gel responds toembrace your shape instantly, helping to relieve aches andpains. K3Gel cells create airpockets that enhance air circulation,regulating your body temperature for unsurpassed sleepingcomfort,’ explains Navrady.

There are four K3Gel bed models in its standard range with a choice of specifications, contemporary waterfall mattress design, choice of base colours, 10-year warranty

and all are available in standard sizes with storage options.Available as a solid block or on pocket springs, the V85 is a

superior grade viscoelastic that offers a level of comfort moreusual on a premium priced bed, he says.

‘The V85 has a high level of density that gives a combinationof support and pressure relief regardless of temperature. Whilesome materials require heat for them to function, making themsusceptible to environmental conditions, V85 remainsconsistently comfortable throughout the year,’ reckons Navrady.

The V85 carries a 10-year warranty and offers pocket springsor solid block with optional base tensions, base colours, sizesand drawer choices.

Mighty Bed is designed to be ultra-durable with a long-termperformance. It has a reinforced spring system and extra-strongdivan base giving it a durability level reflected in its 15-yearwarranty. It is available with a choice of seven base colours,sizes and drawer choices.Visit: www.kaymed.co.uk

A plan to grow salesthat’s not a fairy tale

Sell happily ever afterFrom Therma-Phase™ to Mighty Bed™, V85™ visco elastic to K3Gel®, Kaymed’s patented technologieshave every base covered. We lead the way in the development of pressure relieving andtemperature regulating materials, all created and manufactured in house. This allows Kaymedstockists to enjoy the benefits of being first to market with groundbreaking technologies, givingthem the edge over their competition.

If you want to increase sales and realise the return on investment of innovation over imitation, contact us now via the ‘Become a Stockist’ link on www.kaymed.co.uk, and sell happily ever after.

BEDS AND BEDROOM


Best practiceHow the NBF’s Code of Practice has faredThe National Bed Federation’s Code ofPractice has now been in operation forjust over a year. Its introduction was a seachange in the association’s approach toits membership, and not without risk.

‘We weren’t really sure at the timewhat the reaction of the trade would be:whether retailers would embrace whatwe were trying to do – raising standardsand hopefully inspiring confidence,’ saysJessica Alexander, NBF executive director.

‘But we knew it was the right thing todo as a responsible trade association, asthere were so many stories circulating ofunscrupulous companies cutting cornersand not only deceiving consumers butbreaking the law. The trade has embracedthe scheme widely, with many retailerslooking to ensure all the products theysource come from NBF members.’

The NBF’s message to retailers hasbeen that the code of practice takes allthe worry and work out of ensuringcompliance with legal requirements ofthe products they stock.

‘Bearing in mind that, for retailers, thebuck stops with them just as much as itdoes with the manufacturer, this has tomake sense, especially for smallerretailers that don’t have the in-houseresources to do all the necessarycompliance checks themselves and haveto take what their suppliers tell themlargely on trust,’ says Alexander.

‘Interest in the code has increased andits introduction vindicated by widelyreported transgressions: BBC TV’s FakeBritain’s focus on companies not meetingflammability regulations; the widespreadincidence of so-called bargain surplusstock sold off the back of unmarked vans;and company directors embroiled in thehuman trafficking scandal,’ she adds.

The NBF takes implementationseriously. There are strict rules aboutwhat’s expected and the timescales tocorrect anything that is not right.

Some people might think the codedoes not have any teeth because nomembers have been expelled. But

Alexander says the process is thoroughand vigorous.

‘The fact that we haven’t expelledanyone doesn’t mean they have allpassed the audit with flying colours.What it does mean is that they all wantto be doing things correctly and if thathas not been the case, they have workedhard to get it right. It’s an educationprocess not just about punishment fortransgressions – but we would nothesitate to suspend or expel a memberwho does not come up to scratch and wewill remain vigilant and investigate anyreports that a member might not betrading fairly or legally,’ she explains.

The NBF is considering additional areasthe code might cover, such as health andsafety or ethical trading. The EU TimberRegulations will be included in the auditfrom 2016 and the auditors are lookingat other regulations relevant to theindustry, such as textile compositionlabelling and the biocide regulations. Visit: www.bedfed.org.uk

Far left: NBFposters aredesigned tohelp memberscomply withthe codeLeft: TemplateCode ofPracticecompliancecertificate

Our new traditional pocket spring collection is designed for

optimum back support and comfort. We’ve enhanced the range

with the 2800 pocket sprung mattress for the ultimate in luxury.

We’re proud to say it’s been approved by The Good Housekeeping

Institute too, testament that our beds provide the ultimate in quality.

To find out more call 01282 851 111 or visit www.rest-assured.co.uk

Rest assured it’s the bedyour back would choose

BEDS AND BEDROOM


Long Eaton welcomeGainsborough has opened a second showroom

Gainsborough Beds is the first of the Airsprung Groupcompanies to take up residence at the group’s new showroomat Harrington Mill, Long Eaton.

For many years there has been a showroom at the firm’sheadquarters in Wiltshire, but Andy Richards, Gainsboroughsales director, says it is not the ideal location for many retailers,particularly those who are further north, and it is increasinglyimportant that retailers have early access to new products.

‘We always try to see things from our customers’ point ofview. With retail space under pressure it is very difficult to ask our customers to take a leap of faith: they need to see it and touch it. Retailers’ time is always stretched so anything thatgets the product closer to them is going to be a real advantage,’he explains.

The showroom will also be used to display prototypes andnew designs of beds and sofabeds.

Long Eaton is associated with quality upholstery and theground floor studio space will be shared with sister companiesCollins & Hayes and Cavendish in time for the May Long Pointshow.

‘Long Eaton is synonymous with quality and craftsmanship,and so is Gainsborough. The Collins & Hayes customer wouldbuy a Gainsborough bed and vice versa. So having the two sideby side is perfect synergy,’ says Richards.

Having a permanent display space also means Gainsboroughwill be showing at Long Point for the first time.

Viewings are by appointment only.Gainsborough Beds, tel: 07825 171 333

Lancaster (left), Victoria (below) andMulberry (bottom left) will all be onshow at Harrington Mill

PHO

TOG

RAPH

: DAV

E BE

VIS

Find out more and for an up to date list of NBF Approved members visit:

Be completely assured the beds you sell are everything they say they are. Every NBF Approved Member manufacturer has undergone rigorous independentauditing to certify that they have robust procedures in place to ensure they are

NBF Code of Practice now awarded ‘Assured Advice Status’ by Trading Standards.

BEDS AND BEDROOM


Tradition with a twistFrank Hudson has been handcrafting furniture for almost seven decadesFrank Hudson, which is now part ofGallery Direct, has been producinghigh quality furniture since 1947.Beautifully constructed andmeticulously hand-finished, thefurniture offers customers the bestof British design. All the collectionsare created by the in-house designteam who update traditionalpieces and produce unique, yettimeless designs.

The 10 bedroom furniturecollections feature a selection ofbedsteads and matching bedroomfurniture, from traditional designsto updated classics with a twist.The collections display hand-crafted techniques, including inlaidmarquetry veneers, hand-carving,selected timbers and intricatehand-painted finishes. Beautifullinen cottons, hand-cast handlesand traditional hand-woven canedetailing, add finishing touches tothe collections.

Sister brand Gallery Home’srange of home accessories, frommirrors and lamps to softfurnishings including linens,throws and cushions, can be usedto give the complete look.Visit: www.gallerydirect.co.uk

Above:MaineLeft: SafariCharcoalwith cottonlinen

Above: ChicWeathered withCaneRight: Spire

The Frank Hudson collection is designed to the highest standards andoffers beautifully constructed and meticulously hand finished furniture,made with superb traditional craftsmanship. All Frank Hudsonfurniture collections are created by our in-house design team whoupdate traditional pieces and produce unique, yet timeless designs.The collections offer high quality bedroom, fine dining and occasionalfurniture, all created to suit individual lifestyles and interiors. www.gallerydirect.co.uk

T - 01795 439159

5’ Bed Soft Grey

MODEL SHOWN

ANNECY

BEDS AND BEDROOM


On the upWiemann is enjoyingsuccess at the premiumend of the sectorHaving been in the UK market for morethan a decade Wiemann can be a littlemore selective about its approach, saysPeter Hewitt, Litmus Furniture md, soleagent for Wiemann in the UK andRepublic of Ireland.

‘There is a shift going on in theperception of Wiemann by retailers, awayfrom the promotional, budget end –which of course still has its place – andtowards its premium ranges, whichWiemann calls its VIP products,’ he says.

‘It’s significant to us that our second-bestseller, after the ever-popular Luxor(which, incidentally, has always been inthe upper end of our price and qualityoptions) is now the VIP Loft.’

This shift was also much in evidence in its offering at the recent January

Furniture Show. Alongside the Loft andShanghai VIP ranges, Wiemann showedthe new VIP range, Scarlett, in hingedand sliding door formats; the new slidingdoor range Westside, which opens fromthe centre in the larger, four-dooroptions – along with Tokyo – acomprehensive offering of chests andcupboards to complement the VIPranges.

‘Reaction to these new VIP models wasso good that, following the Cologneexhibition, we have decided to add afurther range into the VIP selection for2015, the Eastside range, which

Above: A corner unithas been added to LoftLeft: Eastside, shown inHavanna finish withmirrors, featureshinged doors andexternal drawers

complements theWestside but hashinged wardrobesand external draweroptions,’ explainsHewitt.

A feature that setsthe Wiemannproducts apart areits glass door anddrawer fronts – andin many cases, glassside panels, too.

‘We prefer glassover gloss as a finishbecause it’s muchmore robust andalso offers a much

smoother and consistent surface finish –which means less aggravation forretailers and their customers.

‘While white and cream are stillpopular colours, it is the darker, murkiercolour Havanna which is proving to bethe 2015 star turn. Havanna lookssmooth and sophisticated and definitelyappeals to a younger, fashion consciousconsumer with money to spend ondesign led products. This gives ourretailers an opportunity to grab newcustomers with Wiemann products,’ headds.Visit: www.wiemannuk.co.uk

Brought to you by

Bedrooms to lust afterFashionable · Flexible · Reliable · Profitable

What’s not to love!

Eastside

Loft

Westside

Shanghai

Litmus Furniture24 Melton Road North Ferriby East Yorkshire HU14 3ET

T: 01482 635283 E: [email protected]

Principal Agent to Wiemann & Gamamobel in the UK & Ireland

www.wiemannuk.co.uk www.gamamobeluk.co.uk

BEDS AND BEDROOM


Good iDeafor salesThe Sleep Council sales courseis to be available on iPadsNext month will see the launch of the Sleep Council SalesAcademy on iPads. Since it was launched almost six monthsago, the National Bed Federation’s online course has only beenavailable on computers.

The course, designed to help bed retail sales advisers learnmore about the science of sleep, and how to use thisknowledge effectively within their sales presentations to buildtrust with their customers, will also be updated after feedbackfrom participants.

‘There is no doubt that sleep, or the lack of it, is gaining morecolumn inches in the press, more coverage on the Internet andamong Twitter users about how to get more of it and how toimprove the quality of it: all of which augurs well for anyoneinvolved in selling sleep products. Every retailer looks for acompetitive edge over their rivals and ensuring that they havethe most professional, knowledgeable staff with a recognisedindustry qualification will help them stand out from the crowd,’says Simon Williams, NBF marketing manager.

Take-up of the Sales Academy among UK bed retailerscontinues to increase, with the latest participation being one ofthe country’s major furniture multiples. Visit: www.sleepcouncilsalesacademy.org.uk

Paul Keenan, manager of Linthorpe Beds, Stockton on Tees, with his SleepCouncil Sales Academy certificate. All of Linthorpe Beds’ sales staff have nowcompleted the programme.

1 Natuzzi’s Dolcevita becomes the focal point of the bedroom, with

a king-size leather headboard that emphasises the craftsmanship.

Available in four sizes, it has wood-look metal feet.

Visit: www.natuzzi.com

2 Siesta Beds has introduced the pocket sprung Savoy 1500 to its

collection. It features bamboo which is a natural insulator, softer

than cotton, highly durable, has anti-bacterial properties and is a

natural deodoriser.

Tel: 0121 773 9969

3 Team7’s Mylon bed combines compactness with delicacy and

plays with the contrast between lightness and solidity. Hand-crafted

details such as crowns and corner joints serve as refined design

elements and lend the Mylon bed its solid yet light character.

Visit: www.team7.at

1

2

3

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

Est 1986

BEDS AND BEDROOM


4 4 Dauphin Home now offers the

opportunity to have its lacquered finish

products in all classic RAL colours for the

price of standard lacquer.

Visit: www.dauphin-group.com

5 Lema’s Hangar walk-in wardrobe,

designed by Piero Lissoni, is versatile, with

lit panels, equipment in Moka oak, and

columns and beams finished in bronze.

Visit: www.lemamobili.com

6 Cattelan’s white painted polyurethane

Nigel nightstand features a drawer and

shelves in 5mm tempered extra-clear

white or graphite painted glass.

Visit: www.cattelanitalia.com

7 Living Divani has expanded its Lipp

upholstery collection to the bedroom.

With its characteristic and elegant sartorial

detail on the headboard, it is a stylistic

code but also a soft element to lean

against.

Visit: www.livingdivani.it

8 Serene Furnishings’ Abigail is a blend

of modern and traditional, combining an

Ivory (pictured) or Black finish framed with

dark brass. It is available in 4ft 6in, 5ft and

6ft sizes with a Birch slatted base.

Visit: www.serenefurnishings.co.uk

7

5

6

8

Wholesale BedsPalermo

GuestbedAvailable In

White or Antique Pine

ModernaBunk Bed

Available In White or Antique Pine

Contract MeshAvailable In 3 Sizes

Six Cross BarsFour Minute Assembley

NO Centre LegsFIVE YEAR GUARANTEE

Contract Range

Skid BedAvailable In 3 Sizes

Near To IndestructibleFolding Legs / Quick AssembleyFIVE YEAR GUARANTEE

Moderna BedAvailable In

White or Antique PineMade Frome Hardwood

Eaton BedAvailable In 3 SizesReinforced Siderails

Metal Mesh BaseNo Centre Legs

FIVE YEAR GUARANTEE

Texas StorageAvailable In 4 Sizes

More Storage Than Any Other Faux Bed

Full Access From Each Side

Texas OttomanAvailable In 5 Sizes

Available In 14 ColoursSteel Framed - Huge Storage Depth

Fabric Base - No Storage Weight Limit

TEL - 01785 250888FAX - 01785 241888EMAIL - [email protected]

SHOW THEMYOU’RE THE BEST

Stand out from the crowd by gaining Sleep Council Sales Academy status – the new online

qualification for bed retail sales professionals

To find out more and to enrol, go towww.sleepcouncilsalesacademy.org.uk

FLOORING


The big showMore than 25 companies will be taking part in the Mercado trade day Mercado, BMK Flooring and Alvin Morrisare to host a trade day at their ThornesFarm Business Park, Leeds depot on 30March.

More than 25 suppliers andmanufacturers will be taking partincluding Abingdon, Altro, Ardex,Associated Weavers, Balta, Balterio,Beauflor, Bostik, Carpenter, Egger, F Ball,Fungrass, Gerflor, Gradus, ITEC, IVC,Mapei, Polyflor, Quantum, Quick-Step,Tarkett, Tremco, Uzin and Wolff Tools.

Many of the participants will also beholding demonstrations, includingAbingdon, Altro, Ardex, Gerflor, ITEC,Mapei and Tarkett. Egger will also bringits renowned Egger truck to the event.

All companies will also be offeringcompetitions, giveaways, andpromotions, including a prize draw andfootball competition. There also will be afacility tour and refreshments will beprovided throughout the day including ahog roast.

Mercado, BMK Flooring and AlvinMorris, will also be debuting productsacross several categories, includingadditions to the Trouble Free collection.

Full details are available from localsales representatives.

Mercado will bejoined by Egger andmore than 25 othersat its Leeds depot

CARPET VINYL WOOD RUGS LVT UNDERLAY

To register visit www.bgnfs.co.uk

THE PLACE TO BE THIS MAY!

“The Buying Groups’ National Flooring Show held at Cranmore Park in Solihull, is the ideal opportunity for Buying Group Members to meet all their approved suppliers mid-way through the year and get up to date with all the new carpet collections and in-store displays.” David Cormack, Cormar Carpets

“The Buying Group Show is second only to Domotex Hannover and is most certainly the best UK flooring show a must to visit for all retailers” Peter Pithie, Godiva Carpet.

“Location, Location, Location... Professional show with the right suppliers, we look forward to this show every year” Simon Manley, Michael John Flooring.

Tuesday 12th May, 9:00 - 17:30Wednesday 13th May, 9:00 - 17:00

Cranmore Park, Solihull, West Midlands, B90 4LF


LIVING AND DINING

Porro has had alove affair withwood for 90 years

Modern + Load ItAn eye-catching mix of bookcase, container and display unit, the new Modern + Load-Itcomposition combines the containing capacity of Piero Lissoni’s Modern system with thegraphic impact of Wolfgang Tolk’s Load-It bookcase. In the living area, the matt moon whitewall panels and the white-painted steel shelves of a full-length Load-It bookcase are proposedwith a matt moon white board and a suspended shelf and hanging element in black stainedhemlock belonging to the Modern system, creating ample equipped surfaces on the wall.

Porro is celebrating its 90th anniversarywith a collection of wooden spinningtops designed by Piero Lissoni, Porro artdirector, marking its enduring affair withwood. The five models, with alternatecolour tones in several combinations ofmaterials and woods, are hand-made, byturning the 16 essences of Porro’scollection, with the simple, yet precioustaste of daily, hand-made objects and ofartisanship.

The tops mark the flow of time withtheir spins, showing new faces time aftertime, and enchanting with their shapes,materials and colours as they recountPorro’s history of contemporary designand wood research.

Porro was founded in 1925 in Brianza,the traditional birthplace of Italianquality furniture sandwiched betweenMilan and the Alps, when brothers Giulioand Stefano Porro established their firstworkshop dedicated to the production ofclassical style furniture for the newbornMilanese bourgeoisie.

The company turned to modern stylein the 1950s with the transition to thesecond generation of the Porro familywith cousins Carlo, Arturo and Silvio, thatmarked the transformation into anindustrial company rather thanworkshop. Participation in the

Load-ItWolfgang Tolk’s Load-It bookcase is manufactured with high resistant, wax-finishedsteel or white painted shelves. The hanging panels are available in mongoi, hemlock,black stained hemlock, steel, mirror, all matt or glossy finishes and the cracked finish.

Grainsof time

��

AARISTARCHUS GLOBAL SOURCING

ONLY £389

+ + +

DEVON

Alternatively, you can contact one of our reps/agents:Scotland, North West England & Ireland : David Green : 07769 792 954 North East & Yorkshire : Tom Holmes : 07850 447 004 Midlands & North Wales : Andrew Lees : 07793 209 334 South West & South Wales : John Pilling : 07771 573 964 East of England : Clive Scofield : 07853 375 869 London & South East : Colin Brett : 07818 694 247

Other items in this range are available, please call for more details; Aristarchus Global Sourcing, Inveralmond Road, Inveralmond Industrial Estate, Perth, PH1 3XA

Tel: 01738 629734, E-Mail: [email protected]

SOLID NEW ZEALAND PINE PACKAGE DEAL

LIVING AND DINING


StorageThe expressive finishing of mongoi alternates onboth sides of open modules to modules closedby iron doors in transparent glass with iron-lookvarnished metal profiles. Thanks to internalcustomisations and accessories, keeping clothesin order has never been so easy with Storage byLissoni and the Porro research centre. A shoecabinet with inclining lighting shelves, non-inclining lighting on internal shelves, glassshelves enclosed by a wooden profile, the drawerwith tilting removable mirror, the tie rack to hangon the panel, the removable clothes hangerhook, the bag compartment and the fabric boxesfor inside drawers, all add a warm, inviting touch.Introduced in 2014, the Acquario drawer unit, intransparent glass with burnished brass profiles, isdivided into three shelves and customisable withwooden trays which leave the contents visible.

Round SynapsisRound Synapsis is a circularversion of the Synapsis tabledesigned by Jean MarieMassaud in 2005. Its uniquelydesigned legs, made with achrome plated or white andblack painted rod ironstructure, are paired with athin top, available in differentfinishes: matt and brightlacquers in various colours,white or black high resistantmatt lacquer, Pral, mongoi andblack stained hemlock.

SystemPiero Lissoni’sSystembookcase playson theirregularity ofopen unitspartially closedby transparentglass sidingdoors with Ironprofile.

FerroLissoni’s Ferro table is made of soldered curved sheet metal, paintedglossy white or black, bronze effect finish or in stainless steel.

recently launched Salone del Mobile wasfundamental for Porro to start buildingits reputation.

Constant stylistic research wasstrengthened by the cooperation withsome of the most important Italiandesigners, such as Bruno Munar whocreated the company’s logo in 1966. Inthe mid 1980s, with the third generationof Lorenzo, Fabio, Giovanni and DaniloPorro, design assumed a leading roleincluding appointing Lissoni in 1989.

A graduate in architecture atPolitecnico di Milano, Lorenzo Porro,president, brought attention for designand the taste for geometrical forms. Inthe 1990s the company specialised inmodular systems for living, sleeping,home and office areas, which currentlymake up about 70% of production.

For decades, Porro has been renownedfor its capacity to select, work andinterpret wood, calling upon the mostrecent technology for glossy and mattlacquers or rediscovering prizedmanufacturing techniques from the past.

The selection of woods is renewedeach year and curated by the Porrofamily with Lissoni, who suggestsnuances and new uses, creating a paletteof 16 finishes.

Continuing this research into wood,Porro will celebrate its 90th birthday witha collection of wooden boxes designedby those who have contributed to itssuccess together with new nameschosen from the worlds of art anddecoration. They can freely use the 16essences of the new collection of Porrowoods, playing with shapes andexperimenting with particular modes ofopening. The Porro wooden boxes will bepresented throughout 2015 during majorevents in the international furniturecalendar.Visit: www.porro.com

Trade only. No children

DESIGNEDFORBUSINESS

Organised by

The May Design Series is the UK’s definitive

interiors event. Meet British and international

suppliers across five show sectors:

Furniture | KBB | Lighting | Decor | DX

The May Design Series welcomes previously

unseen international suppliers alongside the

best of new British talent. No other UK event

provides such a diverse and evenly split floorplan,

representing over 24 countries worldwide.

London ExCeL17–19 May 2015

Be part of it now

maydesignseries.com/im

FRANCE


For more than 50 years Gautier has beendesigning and manufacturing itscontemporary furniture in the Vendeeregion of western France. This richmanufacturing history continues to drivethe global success of the business, withthe company continuing to focus onproducing the finest quality furniture forliving, dining, adult and children’sbedrooms, 95% of which ismanufactured in France.

‘Gautier today is most definitely anambassador of stylish French living,’ says Harvey Roberts, Gautier UK md. ‘In the UK, the Gautier brand has nowbeen established for more than 30 years,and the last year has witnessedunprecedented growth in sales acrossthe market, as the ongoing introductionof a raft of new ranges over the past twoyears really started to drive success.’

Roberts says the latest modular livingranges such as Preface have been amajor commercial hit, with consumers

Style ambassadorsModular living andupholstered beds aredriving growth atGautier while otherstarget the UK with moretraditional designs

delighted by the flexibility of theproducts to fit into any living space whileretaining a highly contemporary andstylish design for the home.

Last year saw Gautier invest in newmanufacturing facilities at its Le Bouperefactory so that it could manufactureupholstered beds for the first time. Theresult was the launch of the Premiumrange, which sits at the top of a highlydistinctive and luxurious modular rangeof adult bedroom collections.

‘Gautier is now well placed tostrategically expand our dealer networkby introducing our successful concept

within retailers in targeted locationsacross the UK. Indeed we are activelylooking for furniture retailers with whowe can partner and develop a greatbusiness and who share our spirit ofentrepreneurialism and passion toexceed customers’ expectations. With aproven in-store concept, a pipeline offurther beautiful new products, extensivemarketing activity, and a dedicatedsupport team in St Albans, there is everyreason to believe that the success ofGautier in the UK will continue,’ saysRoberts.Gautier, tel: 01727 875 114

Left: Preface

Below: Premium

��

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

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

100 STORES WORLDWIDE DUBAÏ PARIS DELHI GENEVA MOSCOW LONDON TORONTO RIYADH CASABLANCA

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

FRENCH MANUFACTURER

ARTIGOCollection

FRANCE


Akante has introduced taupe to thecolours for its wood and glass furniture.The Celia coffee table is available intaupe, lacquered grey and black andthree sizes. The Oxana coffee table in twosizes comes in a polished or brushedfinish and colours include orange, grey,clear, and black and white. The Oliveanest of tables is available in smokymahogany, grey, sand blasted, low ironand blue glass.

While Artcopi’s solid oak furniture hasa standard finish, champagne oak,brushed atelier oak, brushed standardoak or old oak finishes are options.

Ateliers Berniolles has manufacturedoccasional furniture for four decades andeach piece is available in a variety ofcolours and sizes.

Bernard Siguier’s passion formanufacturing bespoke furniture hasconquered foreign markets with itsselection of more than 30 colours andfinishes and its in-house productionability to make to measure. Belle Helenecombines elegant details andharmonious shapes.

Boissigny’s top selling range Ariegecan be entirely customised thanks to thechoice of four levels of distressing and

the combination of 12 colours of woodor painted finishes. The solid oak rangeincludes dining room and occasionalfurniture, with five dining tables invarious standard sizes plus the possibilityof made to measure. Its solid oak Fabrikcollection takes you back to the 1960sand offers a graphite or white lacquerfinish.

Couture specialises in traditional oak

Kok Maison’s bestselling Loom

furniture and its Berangere diningcollection features solid oak or thickveneered panelled tops for the diningtable. The available finishes are taupe,ivory, grey, blue, black, red, slate grey,pearl grey and off-white.

For three generations the family-owned Kok Maison has focused onwoven products and since 2004 it hasconcentrated on design and newmaterial developments such as the useof 100% recyclable synthetic fibres.

Its bestselling Loom offers infinitecombinations of colours while the newBrighton range has a chaise longuewhich is especially made forconservatories and country homes. It isavailable in standard colours includingash and putty as well as on demandcolours including chocolate, pastel pink,ruby red and peacock blue.Visit: http://glpc.co.uk

Bernard Siguier’s Belle Helene

Boissigny’s top selling range Ariege


Jan

uar

y Fu

rnit

ure

Sh

ow Bi

rmin

gh

am

Highlights of the inaugural eventVisit: www.januaryfurnitureshow.com

Forte Furniture’s St Tropez (left)combined wood frames, high glossfascias and lighting while Bronte’s(above) comprehensive range andmellow oak decor attracted attention.

Makasi Imports supplies oak and teakroot furniture and home accessories.

The Saltash diningcollection was ahighlight on theRowico stand,including anextending diningtable, choice ofsideboards (pictured),coffee, console andlamp tables, TV unit,rattan dining chairand stool, andbuttoned andstudded upholstereddining chair.

Upholstery and bedmanufacturer BaotianFurniture made its NECdebut, with designs onshow including the0618 modular three-sectioned sofa(pictured), round chaiseand matching ottoman.

Crowdpullers

REVIEW

REVIEW


Janu

ary Furn

iture Sh

ow B

irmin

gh

am

��

Rauch’s Nice 4 Home range was anexample of one room livingcombining lounge and bedroom.‘It’s our task to bring new ideas tothe retailer to help generate sales.Only if they sell, will we do well,’says Sven Schreiber, Rauch exportdirector.

Wiemann’s Westside, pictured in Havanna glass, opens from the centre in thelarger, four-door options.

Avoiding playing it safe with justneutrals, Time Living introducedtwo fabric bed frames, Naxos(below) in bright green or grey withrounded edges in woven linen andOpalia in red or grey.

PD Global debuted the living and dining roomGranary Royale, a twist on its original Granarycollection with a lighter finish to show more ofthe natural grain of the fruitwood timber.Pictured is the extending Butterfly dining tableand chairs.

Lebus Upholstery’s Camden uses contrast to stand out from the crowds.

REVIEW


Jan

uar

y Fu

rnit

ure

Sh

ow Bi

rmin

gh

am

Lighting company WestLiteintroduced all new lines includingtable lamp bases, shades, and ceilinglights, both crystal and LED.

Wade Upholstery showcased nine new designs, 10 new leathers and six new fabric collections. Designs includedFraser, a buttoned-back version of Dillon and the addition of a chaise longue (pictured) to Radley, creating acorner unit.

Seconique debuted a plethora ofranges and its 2015 catalogue,encouraging a high number of newand existing customers. The stand-out line was Tortilla: a chunky, solidpine collection in distressed waxedpine, attracting customers with itsmodern twist on the bestsellingCorona range. Also popular were theadditions to its bed range: Amber,Celia (left with Charisma bedroom)and Corbin along with the new side-opening Franklyn storage bed(above with Charles bedroom) as itcontinued its long-established policyof offering quality products at valuefor money prices.

REVIEW


Janu

ary Furn

iture Sh

ow B

irmin

gh

am

Record ordersGallery Direct started the year on a highat the January Furniture Show.

‘Our double-decker stand andaccompanying additional space were thetalk of the show. We were able to use theextensive space available on the twostands to great advantage to beautifullydisplay a wide selection of our 1,000-plusSKUs that are available across our brands,Gallery Home, Hudson Living and FrankHudson,’ says Peter Delaney, GalleryDirect md.

Two catalogues – Gallery Home Volume 1 and Frank Hudson Collection2015 – were launched, complementingthe existing Gallery Big Book and SoftFurnishings Collection.

‘Gallery Home Volume 1 includes:Gallery’s 2015 mirror collection, asignature range of diverse individuallydesigned mirrors; Hudson Livingfurniture, made from the finest timbersand unique materials; and new softfurnishings, an inspiring range of textilesand accessories to add the finishingtouch to interiors. Frank HudsonCollection 2015 features an updated andsimplified offering of its furniture.

‘The stands and new collections allreceived incredibly positive feedbackfrom new and existing customers, whichwas reflected in record orders beingwritten during the event,’ he says.

As well as the achievements on theorder front, Gallery won the TheFurniture Award Mid-Level category forits Hudson Living Dexter side tables andaccompanying range.

Dexter was designed to create astatement piece that could enhance thefeel of different room settings, using highquality materials and traditionalcarpentry techniques. It is available witheither an inlaid parquet top or fauxconcrete resin top.

This versatile mindy ash product waspraised by the judges for being on-trend,well-proportioned and likely to stand thetest of time.

‘The whole team put in a tremendousamount of time and effort preparing forthe show, but it was worth it. We wroterecord orders and we are delighted tohave won the Furniture Award 2015 Mid-Level category,’ adds Delaney.Visit: www.gallerydirect.co.uk

James Hudson, business developmentdirector – furniture (left) and Mat Penney,product director, with The Furniture Awardtrophy for Dexter (below)

Elm goesUrban

REVIEW


Jan

uar

y Fu

rnit

ure

Sh

ow Bi

rmin

gh

am

Furniture Origins unveiled a collection ofstyles and products brought together in theUrban collection, using reclaimed elm togive a distinctive look and natural finish forcustomers seeking a true rustic appearance.The collection is further enhanced by usingblue stone inserts on the sideboard,console, coffee and lamp tables, for atimeless appeal. Furniture Origins, tel: 07702 603 971

d edica

tedt oyoursuccess

TheUrbanCollection.Forenquiries,[email protected]:07702603971

AvailableonContainersand

WholesalethroughyourFurniture

OriginsAreaSalesManager

REVIEW


Hei

mte

xtil

Fran

furt

��

True BritsIt wasn’t just the Oscars where the Brits were outin force. Here’s a selection of UK companies that exhibited in Germany. Visit: http://heimtextil.messefrankfurt.com

Clarke & Clarke debuted three embroidery/jacquard collections: Traviata, Zanzibarand Manor House; the Dimensions velvet collection; the wide-width StructuresTrevira range; the Reflections embossed vinyl wallpaper collection and fourplain/semi-plain ranges: Casanova, Palais, Monsoon and Moire.

Rozz Connor produces a diverse collection ofdesigns including geometrics, florals, Jacobeans,stripes, checks and embroidery.

British Velvets showed its collections of stockand custom-made velvets, including digital printsalongside a new digitally printed cushioncollection.

The Isle Mill introduced Tummel Bridge and Clunie Burn, both inspired by theScottish Highlands.

To see the full range or request a free sample please visit: www.axminster-carpets.co.ukor call us: 01297 33533 / 32244

made inGREAT

BRITAIN www.axminster-carpets.co.uk

Introducing 5 NEW colours to our Devonia range.

NEWCOLOURS

available now

Devonia Eggshell Blue1306/76000

Devonia CollectionA collection of opulently rich high-wool-content carpets available in an extensive range of solid colours that enhances any interior.

REVIEW


Hei

mte

xtil

Fran

furt

Lincrusta debuted Tapestry wallpaper, inspired by its designarchives and featuring leaf trails set within a classical ogee andembellished with stitch highlights. Also on show were Neo, acontemporary striated graphical texture, and Passeri, atraditional all-over floral design, and existing ranges includingEdwardian dado panels (pictured).

Walltastic exhibitedits collection ofdesigner wallpapermurals and decor kitsfor children, rangingfrom tots to teens.

Banafshe Schippel Design specialises in both CAD and handpainted designs from designers across the globe andshowcased its latest collection which includes florals andgeometrics.

SMD Textiles launched the Botanica collection of prints and weaves inspired by natureunder its iLiv brand (pictured) alongside Henley, a mix of cotton prints, checks and stripesand the Imperio velvet collection.

Ashley Wildeintroduced 10collections includingLotta (pictured).

Abraham Moon showed its wool fabrics for the fashion andhome interior and fashion markets, made at its Yorkshire plant.

Date:End of February 2016

Venue:Chelsea Football ClubAfter the success of The New London FabricShow 2015, the BFM are pleased to announcethat the exhibition will take place again at the

end of February 2016.

For further information visithttp://www.bfm.org.uk/londonfabricor contact Jackie Bazeley on 01494 569124

S H O W 2 0 1 6

T H E N E W L O N D O N

REVIEW


Ho

me/

Top

Dra

wer

/Cra

ft Lo

nd

on

The move to London Olympia in Januaryfor Home, Top Drawer and Craft saw theshows expand to cover four halls andtwo levels.

Home, which consisted of two keyelements, Modern Home Cook & Dineand Decorative Home, was the exclusiveUK event for BlissHome, Grand Illusions,LSA International, Alessi, and FormaHouse. There was also saw a strongintake of new exhibitors, with JosephJoseph, Apollo Housewares, Deadgood,George East Housewares, ICTC, Grunwergand Skagerak joining establishedexhibitors including Gilberts, Stelton,Iittala, Universal Expert, Robert WelchDesigns, Marimekko, Mini Moderns andCrown Trent.

A number of successful events,including the debut of the New Talentarea, were also run over the three

Olympian successRelocating to a new venue resulted in bigger and better shows

The shows filledfour halls

Bottom: Loveramics

��

REVIEW


Ho

me/

Top

Dra

wer

/Cra

ft Lo

nd

on

days. A programme of retailmasterclasses with guest speakersincluding Heal’s chairman Will Hobhouse,and designer Sebastian Conran, drewappreciative full-houses.

‘The move to Olympia has beentremendously received, buyers werehighly complementary about the newformat and with Home, Top Drawer andCraft utilising the entire venue on twolevels, it was obvious that the show hasgrown significantly. With a whole floordedicated to Top Drawer and a popularnew space for Craft, which had doubledin size, this was without question themost successful event we have run todate,’ says Ian Rudge, Home branddirector.

Home and Top Drawer will return toLondon Olympia from 13-15 September.Visit: www.home-london.net

Above: Will Hobhouse (left) andSebastian Conran (right) drew visitors

Left: Fanny Shorter

Below: BlissHome

Surplus stock?

End of lines?Please consider donatingit to our Charity Furniture

Warehouse, the salesfrom which help to fund

our work with singlehomeless adults. Contactour Warehouse direct on

01732 365988.The Bridge Trust, Tonbridge, Kent

Registered Charity No. 1050291www.thebridgetrust.org.uk

Tuesday / Wednesday19th / 20th May 2015

FORMAT FOR 2015DAY ONEFour Ball Team Event

DAY TWOTwo Ball Team Event

OTHER ATTRACTIONSBacon roll and coffee courtesy of

the Committee

Prizes for Top 3 teams on both days

Nearest the Pin

Longest Drive

Tombola

Secret Auction

Largest carpet manufacturing /

retailer golf tournament in the UK.

Over £1,000,000 has been raised

for charity.

Kidderminster Golf Club - one of

the best courses in the Midlands

and host for the past 58 years!

Stay overnight and play golf on the

second day

All newcomers welcome

Closing date for entries May 2nd 2015

Email: [email protected]

Tel: 01562 824737 Fax: 01562 752010

Design:kingsfordcreative.co.uk

BE YOUR OWN BOSSIf you are self-motivated, hard working and believe that you can run your own business then we can offer you a joint venture Carpet and Flooring Warehouse franchise.A highly rewarding opportunity with great earning potential,to join a chain of like-minded franchisees. Majority funding can be made available and we can also offer a preliminary Management position as the first step toward this exciting role.

IN-STORE CONCESSION SPACEAre you looking for the right outlet for your business,but struggling to find anywhere suitable in size,price or location? Look no further!

We can provide your business with 1,000 to 10,000 sq ft of shop floor space.Various locations and easy in, easy out terms offered.

So, if you sell Beds or Dining Furniture,Fabrics or Upholstery, Tiles or Sanitary Ware, you can join the Carpets4Less success!

For an informal chat regarding eitherof the above business opportunities,please call Malcolm or Carlon 01234 220077.

Regional Sales ManagerReporting to the Managing Director

Significant salary to reflect the responsibilityA rare opportunity to join at a senior level Cormar Carpets, the ‘UK

Manufacturing’ brand leader, in tufted carpets. Over the last few years,Cormar has continued to expand and require a self-motivated, positive

and enthusiastic individual to join their Senior Sales Management team.

The successful candidate will be responsible for managing and workingwith a team of Sales Representatives who sell to independent carpet

retailers. The role involves working with the Managing Director and threeother Senior Regional Managers to develop and implement sales and

growth strategies. Ideally the applicant should have good commercialskills and a proven track record.

Applicants must have good written and spoken communication skills,along with the ability to get on with people and work as a team player.Much of this role will involve motivating, supporting and developing theteam. Applicants must also be able to prioritise work and respond well

under pressure.

Knowledge of the carpet trade is not essential, although the ideal applicant would have experience in managing and directing a sales team.

Relocation is not required because the sales team will be based aroundthe position. As such, applicants are invited from anywhere within the UK.

If you are interested in joining a family run business in this varied andchallenging role then please forward your C.V. with a hand written

covering letter summarising your relevant skills and experience to CarlaPickford, HR Manager, Cormar Carpets, Brookhouse Mill, Bury, BL8 4HR.

Close date is Tuesday 31st March 2015

THE BIGGEST FLOORING DISTRIBUTORPRESENTS THE BIGGEST TRADE OPEN DAY!

BIG Discounts across all product categories...BIG Name supplier support: Abingdon, Altro, Ardex, Associated Weavers, Balta, Balterio,

Bostik, Egger, Gerflor, Gradus, Mapei, Polyflor, Quantum, Tarkett, Tremco, Uzin...BIG Giveaways and Competitions...BIG Prize draws for sporting events & electrical goods......refreshments available throughout the day including BIG Hog Roast

It’s gonna be BIG!

Contact your local rep for details:

Mercado Leeds • Thornes Farm WayThornes Farm Business Park • Leeds • LS9 0PS

Join us onMonday

30th March2015

UK Sales:01706 238 810 www.interfloor.com

Reassuringly resilient and famous for beingthe hardest-wearing, Duralay underlays are engineered

to be tough in every flooring situation.

The Duralay range features our renowned recycledcrumb rubber plus specialist solutions for wood, laminate,

underfloor heating and contract applications soevery floor can be protected by Duralay.

love your floor™

Interiors Monthly March 2015

Documents

Transcript of Interiors Monthly March 2015