Celebrating the best of the best at INDX

July 2, 2025

The 2025 edition of the INDX National Flooring Exhibition was a successful second outing for the relaunched show, with more than 50 exhibitors showcasing their products at Cranmore Park Conference and Event Centre this past May.

Replacing the Buying Groups’ National Flooring Show, the show’s new incarnation (which launched last year) is open to all, whether affiliated with a buying group or not, and this policy likely contributed to the show’s warm and welcoming community atmosphere. Indeed, even the continued trading challenges plaguing the industry couldn’t dampen attendees’ enthusiasms during the sunny two-day event!



In theme with this celebratory atmosphere, The Stocklists once again took the opportunity to co-present the 2025 Flooring Innovation Award Gold Winners with their trophies alongside star judge Bridgette Kelly. The winners were universally delighted to be presented with their accolades, representing as they do the height of achievement and genuine innovation within the flooring industry. 

Inspiration by Tarkett at INDX

The retail brand of Tarkett showed once again at the INDX National Flooring Show, focusing on the addition of two new collections to the range.

The “Beautiful, Everything-Proof” Inspiration Rigid Click collection by Tarkett was debuted and well received with many POS orders taken at the show.


Featuring a 1mm 19dB acoustic foam backing, this new product has 9 planks, specifically selected for the UK, as well as eight superb click herringbone planks and three innovative stone-effect tiles with a neat in-line grout feature for perfect alignment every time. 6.5mm thick and tested to withstand indoor temperatures of up to 50°C, Inspiration Rigid Click also features the superb Tektanium super matt surface protection.

This collection is a guaranteed winner at a very competitive price point with a unique yet simple POS system adaptable for wall or island.



Also featured on the stand was the Essence collection of glue down LVT, 14 colours with plank & mini-plank, all made in Europe with Tarkett’s “best-in-class" Tektanium super matt surface, keenly priced to be ideal for housebuilder work or sales from stock.


POS units for both of these collections are available now from Inspiration by Tarkett.

marketing@tarkett.com

Beautiful British Manufacturing

Axminster Carpets proudly showcased its latest collections, including new colourways for the best selling woven to order ranges – three new colours added to Myth & Moor to further enhance sales of this collection of tartans and plaids. Modern Classics has also been extended to include three new ‘houndstooth’ colours. Samples for these new products will be distributed to retailers in the coming weeks.


Woven to order collections are woven in Axminster, Devon, made from 100% wool and available in two widths 3.66m and 4.57m, made to order on a 4–5 week lead time.


Axminster Carpets continues to invest in its stock position on key selling tufted ranges – Devonia, Moorland, Simply Natural, Velvet and Cobble Weave whilst innovating in line with consumer trends on the woven offer.

 01297 33533

retail@axminstercarpets.uk

www.axminstercarpets.uk

SMG showcases new member benefits at INDX

At the INDX Show this year, SMG showcased two fantastic new approved suppliers to the group, as well as some exclusive SMG-designed Axminster carpets, a new concept rug proposition that doesn’t require a lot of space in store and a fantastic new link selling opportunity.


SMG members have so many options open to them to help boost profits, increase margins and widen their product offers in store, all without changing how they operate. They don’t even have to have direct supplier accounts, or change a thing they already do, to reap the benefits of being a member. From marketing resources, buying options, exclusive products and rebates, SMG has so much to offer.


“It was a fantastic show with lots of exciting new things to talk to our members about; there really are fantastic opportunities for independent retailers with SMG!” said Linda Thomas, Head of Operations.

0118 932 3832

www.smg-group.co.uk

Cormar Carpet Company unveils Silken Serenity

Cormar Carpet Company was delighted to attend this year’s INDX National Flooring Show, showcasing its extensive product portfolio alongside its exciting new ranges.


A highlight of the event was the unveiling of Silken Serenity – a luxurious, heavyweight deep pile carpet made from new and exclusive 100% Luxura polypropylene. Available in 16 stylish shades, it offers outstanding softness, durability and stain resistance – ideal for high-end homes seeking comfort and performance.


Also featured was the newly re-launched Primo Plus. Now better than ever in a heavier pile weight and produced on 10th gauge machinery, it offers a denser pile and improved durability, making it even better value.

The show proved to be a great success for Cormar, providing an ideal platform to connect with customers from all parts of the UK and Ireland, and to reinforce its ongoing commitment to producing high-quality, affordable carpets that meet the needs of today’s consumers.

01204 881234

portal.cormarcarpets.co.uk

Cavalier’s Cosmopolitan: The star of the show

You can always count on Cavalier for something new and interesting at every trade event and this year at INDX in Solihull was no exception. There was a lot to see, with brand new products, updates for key ranges and the latest enhancements to the company's POS graphics.

The star of the show was undoubtably the enhanced colour palette for Cosmopolitan, Cavalier's award winning 1/8th gauge twist, launched in 2016 and getting its first revamp which gives the range a fresh look.


Brand new products included two additions to their ever expanding polyester collection. Starting with 'Velveteen', a super soft 5/32nd gauge velvet in ten exquisite tones, and ‘Altitude’ a luxurious, deep piled quality, made using 100% recycled fibres in eleven contemporary colourways.


The unique Cavalier display Selecterns now catch the eye with the addition of header panels which carry thought-provoking images and inspirational messages.

www.cavaliercarpets.co.uk

The Easilift Machine: a must-have for roll handling

The Easilift Machine is a game-changer for businesses that handle heavy carpet and vinyl rolls. Invented over 25 years ago by Norman Fry, it was designed to solve a serious problem—lifting and displaying heavy rolls (up to 240 kg) safely, quickly, and without risking injury to staff. Today, it’s trusted across industries for one simple reason: it works.


This compact, mobile roll-lifting machine features dual lifting towers with 250 kg worm gear winches, reinforced webbing straps, and sewn-in safety hooks. Every unit meets strict UK safety regulations and has been thoroughly tested for daily, long-term use.


Originally built for carpet retailers, Easilift has proven its value across many sectors—from artificial grass suppliers and gyms to schools, aviation companies, and even the Royal Mint. It handles rolls up to 5 metres wide and doubles as a portable display rack, holding three full rolls when not in use. Better yet, it stores neatly in just one square metre.

With 12 months of free servicing, free parts, next-day repairs, and free staff training included, Easilift makes roll handling safer, easier, and more efficient—starting from just £35 per week.



As one user put it: “My best ever employee.”

www.easiliftmachine.co.uk

Abingdon Flooring turns up the sheet at INDX

Abingdon Flooring’s successful appearance at the INDX National Flooring Show saw it showcase its expanded multi-category offer with the launch of new vinyl collections.


Renowned for its great value carpeting, Abingdon Flooring showed another side of its personality at this May’s INDX National Flooring Show with the launch of five new sheet vinyl flooring ranges under its rapidly growing Simply Smooth family of vinyl and laminate floors. 


Charlotte Coop, Head of Marketing, Abingdon Flooring picks up, “We received a great response to our new sheet vinyl ranges at INDX and we are convinced in the potential these new ranges hold for retailers. Easy to fit, easy to look after, affordable and great to look at – what more could a customer want?”


With these new ranges Abingdon Flooring is giving homeowners a wide choice of cushion sheet floors that offer the ideal blend of quality and practicality with accessible pricing and a reputation for great value. 


Urban features eight wood and stone designs in plank, tiles and herringbone that are exceptionally well priced and the perfect entry into cushion vinyl flooring. Comfort has a compact foam backing for a quieter and more comfortable home, while Eternity lives up to its name giving homeowners a premium specification with the durability for use in the busiest of family homes. Infinity has the premium natural look of LVT in a compact sheet format for a floor that elevates interior style while still delivering value and practicality. 


Of course, no Abingdon Flooring show experience would be complete without some updates to its carpet collections and this year’s INDX National Flooring Show was no different with the production version of Royal Sterling on display.

01274 655694

www.abingdonflooring.co.uk

sales@abingdonflooring.co.uk

Louis De Poortere showcases new Ecorugs at INDX National Flooring Show

Showing the latest designs to be welcomed into the Ecorugs collection for the first time in the UK, Louis De Poortere used the INDX National Flooring Show to promote its recyclable rug collection.


Just two years since its launch, Louis De Poortere’s Ecorugs collection is a multiple award-winner and stands out in the industry for its thoughtful approach to circular rug production. With everything, even the label, made from 100% polyester, Ecorugs can be recycled into a new Ecorug through the free-to-consumer Take Care Program. And with all new Ecorugs now made from 40% recycled materials – up from 20% in 2024 – the manufacturer is well on its way to more sustainable circular production.


Louis De Poortere brought along its newest Ecorugs designs to this May’s INDX National Flooring Show. Suzani, Tabriz, Kasak, Antalia designs in the hugely popular Antiquarian line, Sol and Virgin Land in Mad Men, Berber in Structures and Ribbon in Craft; these new designs were all well received by visitors.


“Ecorugs has established itself very quickly and we’re seeing traction in the market,” said Alan Russell, sales director, Louis De Poortere. “With PwC reporting that 46% of consumers are already buying more sustainable products, we’re only expecting the collection’s popularity to grow.”


Louis De Poortere showed its brand-new wilton collection, Les Blancs Structurés, for the very first time. This minimalist design comes in stunning geometric textures in the purity of white to enhance even the most prestigious of interiors.

www.louisdepoortere.com

info@depoorterelouis.com

Greendale introduces iD 2.0 at INDX

Greendale Carpets once again highlighted its fabulous iD – Interior Design offer at the INDX Show, with three new range additions and some contemporary stands.


“Our plan was always to introduce iD 2.0 at the show” said Marketing Manager, Latona Potter. “We have introduced three new ranges into the collection, along with these wonderful stands that complement the brand ideal beautifully.”


iD – Interior Design by Greendale is a collection of designer-led carpets that are available under the iD branding exclusively to Greendale members.


“We are always challenging ourselves to provide extra value and benefits for our members” said Latona. “If you stand still, you are actually falling behind, so it’s important for us that we continue to innovate and bring new ideas to the group to help our members grow their business.”

Greendale is also holding its bi-annual Social Event in June at the New Hall Hotel in Sutton Coldfield.



“The event sold out very quickly,” said Latona. “These events have been the talk of the trade for some time, but to have sold the hotel out completely in these tough economic times was a fantastic acknowledgement by our members to the continued strength of the group. It should be a great day and evening, with events lined up such as laser clay, cocktail making, supplier interaction, BBQ and a live band.”

 01432 852000

www.greendalecarpets.co.uk


MasterPiece innovation continues

While MasterPiece’s unique measuring, planning and estimating suite continues to be central, the software now offers facilities to streamline the retailer’s front and backend processes.


At the Front End:

The Floorplan Import function presents the published floorplan from Right Move or builder’s plan and enables the user to trace over it to scale; the rapid estimate generated is typically within £50 of finalised quote.

The Simple Sales facility enables the creation of the invoice for sales which don’t require a room to be measured, e.g. for selling remnants, special order or items from stock.


The Quick Quote facility allows an experienced or novice salesperson to give a ballpark price within a minute of saying hello to the customer, either over phone or with customer in-store.


At the Backend:

The Payments Module now assists the bookkeeper to get the information required for recently accepted jobs into the accounting system.

The Part Fits facility makes a traditionally messy process easy to handle reliably. The user has a dashboard to select requirements for each Part Fit and system then generates separate “Info for warehouse & fitter” for each Part Fit. Each Part Fit can now be independently scheduled in the scheduling diary.


The Scheduling Diary is tailored for flooring. The info needed is passed from the estimating system, so doesn’t have to be manually entered; the duration of fit is estimated automatically. Reminders and “Be in shop events” can be added, plus the ability for a subcontract fitter to designate times when they are not available.

www.masterpiece-system.com


Floorify unveils award-winning Smart Display and product innovations at INDX 

Floorify, the Belgian flooring pioneer known for its elegant rigid vinyl floors, made waves at this year’s INDX Flooring Show with a host of powerful innovations. Staying true to its mission of combining style and seamless customer experiences, Floorify showcased its award-winning Smart Display, an array of exciting new patterned floors in its click range, and the launch of a high-end gluedown collection.


Award-winning Smart Display: revolutionising the in-store experience

Floorify’s award-winning Smart Display is redefining how customers shop for flooring. Already installed in 25 stores, this state-of-the-art solution enhances confidence for retailers and customers alike. When a customer pulls a sample from the rack, the central digital screen instantly adapts to show that exact floor in various room settings. At the same time, the display provides key product benefits and technical details to support the salesperson. 


What’s more, the Smart Display is connected to Floorify’s logistics hub, allowing real-time visibility of UK stock levels, helping close the sale even faster. 


Recently awarded a National Flooring Innovation Award from The Stocklists in the Technology category, the Smart Display is more than just a tool. It’s a proven game-changer that boosts engagement, enriches the shopping experience, and drives results. 


Patterned floors made easy: Floorify sets the standard in design click flooring 


Chevron Collection: Elegance Made Easy 

Floorify’s new Chevron collection combines timeless beauty with effortless installation. Known for its sophisticated aesthetic, chevron flooring traditionally requires precise measuring, but Floorify makes it beautiful and easy. 


Thanks to a smart pre-assembled rigid core and Floorify’s click system, installation is faster and flawlessly aligned. No glue, no hassle, no room for error. The result? A perfect patterned floor in a fraction of the time, with 100% alignment guaranteed. 


Styled with the same matte finish, fine textures, and subtle bevels as the popular herringbone range, the Chevron collection offers timeless elegance, with zero compromise on ease. 


Trendsetter Twist 

The Twist collection is where creative craftsmanship shines. With a characterful oak design featuring diagonal lines, brushed textures and natural color variation, this collection adds an authentic twist to any space. The long, narrow planks ensure quick and easy installation – just click and go! 


The Twist collection is available in two variants: the light, untreated wood-look Gizeh (F400) and the warm, natural wood tone Toblerone (F401).

 +32 (0)51 140 180

www.floorify.com



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FEATURED ARTICLES
July 2, 2025
Karndean Designflooring’s new Knight Tile collection perfectly demonstrates why LVT is fast becoming the go-to choice for modern homes. Six new wood designs, with four herringbone options, and three stone designs have been meticulously handcrafted to replicate and enhance authentic features. Richard Allen, Sales Director at Karndean Designflooring said, “It’s our attention to detail that keeps customers coming back. Our designers have been inspired by beautiful samples of wood and stone, including reclaimed planks from an old wind-powered sawmill in Amsterdam and the natural veining of marble found in riverbeds, to create our latest collection of desirable floors. Our updated Knight Tile collection has something for everyone, bringing a sense of calm and sophistication to any room. “Everyone loves a little luxury and with our Knight Tile range nobody has to choose between style and budget. The new Knight Tile designs are guaranteed to transform any space without breaking the bank.”
July 1, 2025
When does a customer have the right to a refund, replacement or repair? This has long been an area of dispute, but the Consumer Rights Act 2015 simplified this and, although there are some exceptions, the general principles for orders placed in your store are: Late delivery: unless you have quoted a realistic lead time, the consumer can cancel the order and receive a refund if the goods are not delivered within 30 days (or within 30 days of the estimated lead time). If and when you become aware of any delays to a customer order, it’s best to advise them as soon as possible to minimise the risk of a cancellation. Incidentally, any repair work or replacements must also be expedited and carried out ‘without significant inconvenience’. Many retailers now have loan items to ensure they comply with this requirement and although this may seem expensive, it’s cheaper than having to issue refunds. Faulty goods: The customer has the right to reject faulty goods within 30 days of delivery. What is a fault? There is no legal definition, other than the need for them to be of satisfactory quality, fit for purpose, and corresponding to the description/sample. The Act says the goods must be free from minor defects, but what does that mean? I drew up a definition some years ago which has been helpful to many people I have advised: A defect is something inherent in a product that adversely affects, or may come to affect, the appearance, suitability or performance of that product now or during its reasonable expected lifespan. It’s worth noting that installation is not a separate service unless the customer has arranged their own, so if the installation is not satisfactory the customer can reject the goods. Who is the judge of this? Within the first six months, the burden of proof lies with the seller – so we as retailers must prove the goods are not faulty if we are going to reject a complaint. After six months, the burden of proof changes and the customer has to prove the goods are faulty, perhaps by way of an independent expert’s report. But, rejecting goods is one thing, what rights does the customer have? If the fault is brought to the sellers attention within 30 days, the customer can choose between a refund, replacement or repair. We cannot insist that they accept what we want to offer, but most customers are reasonable and if we respond to complaints promptly, this will rarely need to be an issue. If we offer a refund, this must be paid within 14 days. After 30 days, the consumer loses the right to a refund. They can still choose between a repair or replacement (and we could still give a refund if we chose to), but they cannot insist on their money back. However, this is taken from the date of the complaint, and if there are delays, the clock has stopped ticking and the customer can still ask for a refund if the matter is not resolved. After 6 months, not only do the consumer’s rights reduce, but the value of any refund can be reduced from this point to reflect any usage the customer has had of the goods. This may be a proportion of the price reflecting how much of the guarantee period has been used up, or if there is no guarantee, most furniture and flooring would be expected to last for the statutory period of six years, so this could be the basis for any calculation. Of course, there is a ‘but’ – if during this period the customer has to wait for a repair or replacement, this must also be taken into account.  The flowchart (shown on page 26) summarises this and may be helpful as you deal with particular complaints. However, the rules governing sales taken in a customer’s home or online are different and we’ll cover these in a future article. If you come across an issue you can’t resolve before then, please get in touch.
June 30, 2025
Flanders Flooring Days, 2nd June – 5th June, saw visitors to IVC step into a circular future through a journey exploring the company’s innovations in more sustainable vinyl flooring.
June 30, 2025
As an international market leader in floors, Tarkett is proud to launch its new brand, STELLAR, which has been developed to target retail and premium sales channels. Designed and made in Europe, its first collections will embody the brand’s commitment to artisanal craftsmanship, innovative design, and sustainability.
June 30, 2025
Temperature tolerant adhesives have been developed for installing resilient floorcoverings, such as LVTs, in areas where temperatures have the potential to fluctuate. F. Ball technical service officer, Andy Mees, advises on when and why you need to use a temperature tolerant adhesive and how to select the right one. Extreme temperatures or temperature fluctuations can cause floorcoverings to expand and contract significantly. This is frequently the case in heavily glazed areas that are subject to solar gain during the day, such as conservatories, which then rapidly cool at night. Over time, this can lead to unsightly tenting and gapping at the edges of floorcoverings, particularly between adjacent vinyl tiles or planks. Once fully cured, temperature tolerant adhesives hold floorcoverings firmly in place, restricting these movements and ensuring that flooring installations maintain their aesthetic appearance for years to come. Where and why? The availability of temperature tolerant adhesives raises questions about exactly where they need to be used. There is sometimes confusion about why a temperature tolerant adhesive is required to install LVTs in conservatories but not over underfloor heating. F. Ball’s Technical Service Department answers calls from installers who believe it is necessary to use a temperature tolerant adhesive to install floorcoverings where underfloor heating is present when, in fact, it is not always required. This is because temperature fluctuations as a result of underfloor heating systems are much more gradual and less extreme than changes in temperature resulting from solar gain, which can result in swings of 60°C. To meet British Standard guidelines of resilient and textile floor coverings, underfloor heating systems should not exceed 27°C at the bond line. Temperature tolerant adhesives are therefore only always necessary where there are heavily glazed areas, including conservatories and areas with floor-to-ceiling window, such as extensions fitted with bi-fold doors. F. Ball’s full range of adhesives can be used over all kinds of underfloor heating. Wet-lay adhesives Where a temperature tolerant adhesive is required, there are a number of options. Wet-lay temperature tolerant adhesives are available for contractors who are installing vinyl floorcoverings in areas that will be exposed to high temperatures and are available with a range of additional properties. F. Ball’s Styccobond F48 PLUS, for example, is a fibre-reinforced, high temperature grade adhesive for installing a range of vinyl floorcoverings. Fibres in Styccobond F48 PLUS allow it to offer high initial grab to hold floorcoverings securely in place while contractors are working. It is also fast drying, and as a one-part solution, there’s no mixing required before application. Hybrid adhesives When installing vinyl tiles and planks, it is useful to have the benefits of pressure sensitive adhesives, which form an instant grab upon contact, ideal for installing floorcoverings featuring intricate patterns and bespoke designs that need precise alignment. They also offer a long open time, reducing the risk of late placement. F. Ball’s Styccobond F49 Hybrid PS is a water-based vinyl adhesive with the familiar characteristics of a pressure sensitive adhesive, which develops the extremely high bond strength and dimensional stability required to hold vinyl floorcoverings firmly in place in areas exposed to extreme temperature fluctuations (from -20°C to +60°C). Whilst providing high initial tack, the adhesive allows contractors to lift and reposition floorcoverings in the initial stages of drying. Floorcovering compatibility Flooring contractors should always check that an adhesive is suitable for use with a particular floorcovering. For these purposes F. Ball produces its industry-leading Recommended Adhesives Guide (RAG). The 2023 edition of the guide lists adhesives recommended for use with over 6,000 floorcoverings, produced by over 200 manufacturers. Alternatively, F. Ball’s technical service department are on hand Monday to Friday, 8.30am – 5.00pm, to answer your questions about F. Ball products and how to use them. www.f-ball.com
June 8, 2025
Learn all aspects of flooring installation at the Uzin Utz Campus in Stafford. The state-of-the-art facility provides diverse training opportunities throughout the year. From subfloor preparation, LVT fitting, wet room installations, wood floor sanding and sealing, as well as resin flooring installation, each course is designed to inspire and equip you with essential skills. With prices starting at just £75 per person, you will not only gain valuable knowledge but also lunch and refreshments, a certificate of achievement, a Uzin Utz Campus T-shirt, and exciting giveaways.
June 7, 2025
FITA is an independent, not-for-profit organisation, providing specialist training for the floorcovering industry. Co-founded by the Contract Flooring Association and the National Institute of Carpet and Floorlayers, FITA has two specialist training centres at Loughborough and Kirkcaldy, fully equipped to deliver over 20 different flooring courses including carpet, LVT, sheet vinyl, wood, linoleum and subfloor preparation.
June 6, 2025
When it comes to ensuring that flooring meets standards of other design features, such as furnishings and fittings, following best practice in subfloor preparation and flooring installation is as important as the floorcovering selection itself. Tim Green, head of training at the UK’s leading manufacturer of subfloor preparation products and adhesives, F. Ball and Co, explains how training in these areas can help achieve a design edge and how to access the best free provisions available.
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BUSINESS NEWS
July 2, 2025
Carpet imports into the UK declined in April, however consistent growth for vinyl meant the overall flooring category remained nearly level, according to HMRC data compiled by The Furnishing Report.  The data shows flooring imports down just 1% to £127.9m across carpet, wood, vinyl and linoleum, however carpet and rug imports specifically fell by 4.5%, down to £74.5m. The drop can largely be attributed to a 38% decline in goods arriving from Belgium, with Turkey’s carpet imports increasing 11% up to £18.6m, making it the largest single source of textile floorcoverings brought into the country. Vinyl imports saw an 8.1% rise to £37.9m, reportedly marking the eleventh straight increase on a year-on-year basis – largely driven by a continued recovery of shipments from China compared to a weaker 2024.
July 2, 2025
Cormar Carpets is pleased to announce the internal promotion of Alan Harris to the position of Sales Director, following the retirement of long-serving Sales Director Chris Isaacs.
July 1, 2025
GfK’s long-running Consumer Confidence Index increased by three points to -20 in May. All measures were up in comparison to last month’s announcement. Neil Bellamy, Consumer Insights Director at GfK, an NIQ Company, says: “There’s an improvement across all five key indicators in May, led by two forward-looking findings. The measure for personal finances looking ahead for the next 12 months has moved out of negative territory, increasing by five points to + 2. There’s a similar improvement in how consumers see the coming year’s general economy, with a four-point boost to -33. “It’s also worth noting the three-point rise in the measure on major purchases for big-ticket items such as furniture or electrical goods, with May’s score of -16 marking the highest level seen since the end of 2024. Have consumers taken comfort from the Bank of England’s May 8th quarter-point base-rate cut? And have they breathed a tiny sigh of relief since April when the sudden turbulence of the Trump Tariffs was prompting dire warnings of economic damage and a return to inflation? Those dangers – especially the issue of inflation – have not disappeared but the consumer mood in the UK does appear to have improved a little.” General economic situation The measure for the general economic situation of the country during the last 12 months is up one point to -46; this is seven points worse than in May 2024. Expectations for the general economic situation over the next 12 months have gone up by four points to -33; this is 16 points worse than May 2024. These are the current findings of the GfK Consumer Confidence Barometer (CCB) powered by NIM. The CCB has been published jointly by GfK and the Nuremberg Institute for Market Decisions (NIM), the founder of GfK, since October 2023.
June 30, 2025
Belgotex International has now wholly acquired Lano, one of Europe’s largest carpet manufacturers, The Furnishing Report has revealed. Belgotex International describes itself as Africa’s leading carpet and artificial grass manufacturer, and it also owns Associated Weavers as well as Balsan Carpets and Tiles. The company acquired 60% of Lano’s shares in 2022, and has now purchased the remaining 40%. The group has reportedly appointed Olivier Decouttere as Lano’s new chief executive following the takeover. Decouttere previously worked as Managing Director of Mattex Fabrics in Dubai, where he also led global sales for carpet backings. According to The Furnishing Report, Belgotex has announced the Lano name will remain in place, with no change to the customer-facing process. The African group reportedly praised Joe Lano and the Lano team for their historic efforts.
June 30, 2025
F. Ball and Co. Ltd. has added to its team of experts who deliver industry-leading training courses at the state-of-the-art F. Ball Centre of Excellence, with the appointment of Adrian Barker as training officer. Working alongside F. Ball head of training, Tim Green, Adrian will promote best practice in flooring installation by delivering free training courses at the purpose-built facility and further afield according to customer requirements. Adrian brings nearly four decades’ flooring industry experience to the role. Starting his career in 1987 on a youth training scheme with a small family-run flooring contractor, where he worked for 10 years installing textile and resilient floorcoverings in commercial settings, he later founded his own business installing carpet and LVTs in retail locations. He also began delivering training for flooring apprentices for a construction industry training provider. Adrian said: “I developed a preference for F. Ball products throughout my career – my local technical representative always supported me with answers to queries and solutions for projects. I have also attended training courses at the F. Ball Centre of Excellence and was impressed by the standard of provisions and the overall culture of the organisation – they even helped with the development and delivery of my own courses. So it’s a privilege to have the opportunity to join the team.” All flooring professionals can attend courses covering all aspects of subfloor preparation and floorcovering installation at The F. Ball Centre of Excellence for free, including specialist courses for both apprentices and seasoned professionals, involving practical demonstrations and exercises using high-performance F. Ball products. 01538 361 633 www.f-ball.com
June 5, 2025
Imports of soft flooring including wall-to-wall carpet and rugs were up 8.8% to £74.75m in March, according to HMRC data compiled by The Furnishing Report. With this increase, imports of carpet grew faster during the period than alternatives like vinyl.
June 2, 2025
GfK’s long-running Consumer Confidence Index decreased by four points to -23 in April. All measures were down in comparison to last month’s announcement. These are the current findings of the GfK Consumer Confidence Barometer (CCB) powered by NIM. The CCB has been published jointly by GfK and the Nuremberg Institute for Market Decisions (NIM), the founder of GfK, since October 2023.
May 29, 2025
Likewise Group, the UK flooring distributor, has announced its audited final results for the year ended 31 December 2024.
May 7, 2025
GfK’s long-running Consumer Confidence Index increased by one point to -19 in March. Two measures were up, two were down and one was unchanged in comparison to last month’s announcement.
May 7, 2025
The prices of carpets and other floorcoverings fell 1.8% in March 2025, according to the latest data from the Office for National Statistics. This is the second consecutive month of falling prices, with carpets seeing a drop of 1.7% in February, down from 2.5% growth in the same period last year.
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July 2, 2025
It has been quite the year for Klipboard, formerly known as Kerridge Commercial Systems.
July 2, 2025
Karndean Designflooring is expanding its bestselling Knight Tile collection with a fresh, curated selection of wood and stone designs launching summer 2025. Introduced to offer sought after tones not yet available in the range, these new classics reflect the rising trend of restorative, nature-inspired spaces while maintaining the practicality and affordability the collection is known for. The extended Knight Tile collection includes six new wood planks, four matching herringbones and three stone designs – all ideal for homeowners looking to upgrade their interiors with design-led, budget-conscious flooring. The new additions are available in Karndean’s classic 36”x6” gluedown plank format, with four designs also offered as slim 18”x3” herringbones. Stone looks come in 12”x18” tiles, ideal for brick bond layouts and seamless transitions across open-plan spaces. Richard Allen, sales director at Karndean Designflooring, said: “Knight Tile has always been about offering great design at an accessible price. These new additions reflect emerging home trends and colour stories, particularly the move towards restorative, nature inspired interiors. Whether it’s a compact hallway or a full renovation project, this collection makes it easy to achieve a stylish and hardwearing finish without compromising on budget.” He added: “It’s perfect for any stage of living, from first time buyers putting their stamp on a space to empty nesters looking for a fresh update. It continues to be a go to in new build homes, offering on trend, durable floors that work with modern lifestyles.” Wood looks reimagined Inspired by nature and informed by interior trends, the new wood designs span a wide range of tones and styles – from the soft, natural grain of Norfolk Acacia to the rich, espresso tones of Cocoa Limed Oak and the striking multi-toned Duxbury Acacia, inspired by traditional shipbuilding timber. Planks can be laid straight or in full-plank herringbone for a contemporary twist, while coordinating 18” x 3” herringbones in Nutmeg Limed Oak, Cocoa Limed Oak, Wells Acacia and Duxbury Acacia allow for more intricate designs in smaller spaces or clever zoning in open layouts. The characterful Russet Character Oak draws on reclaimed wood from an Amsterdam sawmill, bringing a sense of heritage and warmth to both modern and traditional interiors. Also new to the Knight Tile range are three versatile stone-effect designs – Lunar Limestone, Natural Limestone and River Marble – all available in 12”x18” tiles. From the subtle elegance of pale limestone to the soft veining of marble inspired by flowing riverbeds, these tiles provide a chic alternative to traditional stone, with the added benefits of warmth underfoot, underfloor heating compatibility, and easier maintenance.
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Comfytex Deluxe Max is a brand-new collection from LeoLine, bringing unbeatable all-round performance and supreme style to every home.
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The new and improved Flex Pro Pure is the fast and easy way to install Moduleo design floors.
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Thanks to premium wood, laminate and vinyl floors, Quick-Step is the brand that has it all.
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