Flanders Flooring Days welcomes new participants for 2025 edition

May 7, 2025

The countdown has begun for this year’s Flanders Flooring Days event. From 2-5 June 2025, organisers say, Flanders will be buzzing with the fourth edition of this flooring-focused event. Over 100 international brands will be showcasing their latest products in ‘The Hub’ in Kortrijk Xpo as well as the local showrooms of participating companies. Alongside many now-familiar names, the organisers say they are delighted to be welcoming a list of newcomers to the event. Register now for your free visit!

In the short time since the first event a few years ago, Flanders Flooring Days has evolved into a landmark event for the flooring sector – from hard and soft flooring to textile floor coverings, finishes and accessories. The event brings together producers, manufacturers, retailers, the DIY sector and consultants from all over the world. The four-day event is an opportunity for networking, gathering inspiration, and absorbing craftsmanship in all its facets. The organisers of Flanders Flooring Days are delighted to be welcoming a number of illustrious names to the event this year.

Hard and soft flooring
Alsa Flooring, Classen and Egger will be joining the list of hard flooring producers and presenting their newest products. Gascogne Bois will share its passion for wood, with elegant applications for interior and exterior.

The textiles sector will also be well represented this year, with names including Euro-Tapis and the Ibexx Flooring Group showcasing their latest collections of rugs and carpets. Best Wool Carpets will be highlighting its sustainability aspects, with top quality wool carpets combining luxury with ecologically friendly design. “Let’s discover the future of flooring together”, says the Dutch manufacturer. “It will be the perfect moment to meet, exchange ideas, and spark inspiration. You’re warmly invited!”

The expo experience also extends beyond The Hub in Kortrijk Xpo. CFL Flooring and Condor Group will be throwing open the doors to their showrooms and offering an exclusive viewing of their ranges: the perfect opportunity to get up close to the materials.

Accessories
There will also be plenty to explore in the area of flooring accessories and finishes. Companies such as Karl Pedross and Neuhofer Holz will be presenting their latest skirting board designs and high-quality floor accessories. Küberit will also be present in Courtrai to exhibit its advanced profile system for floating floors.

One newcomer worth a special mention is F. Ball & Co., specialist in flooring adhesives and floor preparation products, who will be attending for the first time. “We believe Flanders Flooring Days has become the ‘go-to’ event for the northern European flooring market,” the company says. “We are looking forward to exhibiting for the first time this year and having the opportunity to present the F. Ball brand to many potential new customers and partners in Belgium and beyond.”

Spotlight on sustainability
During this fourth edition, special attention is being given to sustainability, with Tuesday, June 3 as the highlight, dedicated entirely to this theme. The programme includes several seminars that will be taking a closer look at pathways for the future of the flooring industry. CISUFLO is one that will certainly be worth attending, with the event scheduled as the conclusion of a years-long research project on sustainability, during which Centexbel has been working with 18 European partners on circular economy solutions for carpet, vinyl and laminate flooring. The objective is to keep raw materials in circulation for as long as possible.
During this seminar: “CISUFLO: paving the way towards circular flooring”, Centexbel researcher Ine De Vilder will be sharing her insights from the project. The same day, Jan Jordan from RWTH-ITA will present: “The CISUFLO Systemic Transition Support Tool”, a practical tool to support businesses making the transition to a circular flooring industry.

A full programme for the event’s seminars can be found on the show website, listed below. Register in advance to get the most from your visit, organisers urge. For practical information, a full list of attendees, and registration, visit the website.

www.flandersflooringdays.com

Broucks NV Brings Belgian Rug Design to Flanders Flooring Days 2025
Founded in 1952, Broucks NV is a Belgian rug manufacturer with a rich tradition in weaving. By combining traditional techniques with modern technology, the company creates quality rugs for global markets.
Broucks NV’s in-house design team produces both proprietary and custom collections, tailored to various client needs. The company is deeply committed to sustainability, minimising its ecological impact throughout production and logistics.

At Flanders Flooring Days 2025, Broucks NV will unveil its latest collections, highlighting its dedication to creativity, craftsmanship, and innovation. With rugs that bring warmth, character, and comfort, Broucks NV continues to strengthen its position as a leader in Belgium’s rug industry.
www.broucks.com
els@broucks.com

Immerse in innovation at Quick-Step during Flanders Flooring Days
Quick-Step will inspire visitors at Flanders Flooring Days (2-5 June, Belgium) with an immersive audio-visual experience exploring its latest flooring innovations.

Stepping into its impressive Waregem headquarters, visitors will be immersed into a multi-sensory encounter showcasing its most recent industry-defining developments.

Walking through the Quick-Step experience will also be an opportunity for visitors to gather knowledge on two major forthcoming product developments: the new Impressive laminate collection and Lumic, the result of a 10 year development journey to create the “perfect floor” using today’s best technologies.

Quick-Step’s Impressive collection has been a mainstay in its laminate category floors for over a decade. In 2025, Impressive is being extensively refreshed through the addition of two new wood surface structures.

Lumic is a game changing product, not just for Quick-Step, but for the industry as a whole. Visitors to FFD will be among the very first in the industry to experience just what makes Lumic “the perfect floor”.
www.quick-step.com

Excellence and accessibility at Betap
As a distinguished entity in the international carpet industry, Betap has been dedicated to making quality flooring accessible to everyone since 1918.

Betap offers an extensive selection of premium carpet solutions for wholesalers, retailers, DIY-stores, and discounters across the globe. Ensuring customer satisfaction, environmental awareness, and the welfare of its employees and community are paramount in its operations.
Betap’s journey from a humble producer of rush mats to becoming a notable name in the sector demonstrates its commitment to innovation and excellence. Based in Genemuiden, the vibrant center of the Dutch carpet industry, Betap stands out for its comprehensive approach to quality and service.

They warmly invite you to the exhibition hall, a gathering place for industry networking, future planning, and discovering the latest innovations. Join Betap in experiencing a century-long commitment to providing quality flooring, accessible to you since 1918.
T +31 (0)38 386 1060 • www.betap.com

Fresh innovations & sustainable flooring at FFD 2025
Condor Group is thrilled to return to the flooring event just across the border, bringing an exciting showcase of innovations and sustainable solutions.

This year, the company is going big with exciting new developments such as the new Myriad collection from Condor Carpets and the Level Cut Loop qualities of both from Condor Carpets and Edel Carpets. You’ll also get a first look at the latest woven ranges from Intercarpet and Timzo, plus the newest developments from Condor Grass, pushing the boundaries in recyclable artificial grass technology.

As tradition continues, Condor will be be transforming Hotel Auberge du Pêcher into a warm and welcoming Dutch-style venue, definitely worth the visit! And don’t miss Betap at Kortrijk Xpo, where more forward-thinking carpet innovations will be on display.

In short: Condor Group is a must-see at Flanders Flooring Days 2025.
See you there!
www.condor-group.eu

Marvel at Moduleo during Flanders Flooring Days
Be the first to get up close with the updated Moduleo LayRed collection at Flanders Flooring Days, 2-5 June, Belgium.

With improvements to performance and fresh on-trend designs, the launch of the updated Moduleo LayRed at this June’s Flanders Flooring Days is your first chance to find out just how strong and beautiful this new collection is. In fact, with Moduleo’s testing room, you’ll be able to test out the impressive performance for yourself and see how its durability, easy installation and cutting-edge style have made it an industry favourite.

Flanders Flooring Days will also be a chance to learn more about Moduleo’s sustainability journey, including how it makes LayRed with 22% pre-consumer recycled content and its drive to product circularity through the ReCover programme, which recovers installation waste and old floors to be turned into new floors.

Retailers will also be able to get to know how Moduleo can support them through the available POS tools and content. The Moduleo team will be welcoming visitors to discover its innovation, sustainability and design difference throughout Flanders Flooring Days at the Unilin Flooring headquarters in Wielsbeke, around 21km from Kortrijk Xpo.
0132 851500 • www.moduleo.co.uk

Welcome to the wonderful world of extraordinary carpet during FFD 2025!
The heyday of the carpet industry is coming and LANO is pleased to announce an open day’s event at its showroom from Monday 2nd to Thursday 5th of June. This 4-day event offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the latest trends in carpet design, materials, and interior inspiration.

“We believe that great design begins from the ground up,” says Gary Alp, Sales Director UK at Lano. “Lano has been redefining interiors with high-quality carpets and flooring for almost 100 years. Known for our innovation, and customer-focused approach, we offer solutions that blend style with comfort. This event is a celebration of craftsmanship and creativity — and a way for us to connect directly with our customers.

“We are in full preparation to give our customers and visitors a great welcome and a memorable visit. We will take them on a journey where we will showcase a wide range of qualities from residential carpet and SmartStrand, through qualities for commercial applications to Axminster woven concepts and, of course, our artificial grass.”

Join the company for an unforgettable visit filled with creativity, connection, and a few surprises.
“See you soon!” Lano’s team concludes.
+32 (0)56 65 40 00 • www.lano.com

Discover circular design with Louis De Poortere at FFD
Known for its beautiful designs in woven carpets and rugs, Louis De Poortere is showing its wares to the world at June’s Flanders Flooring Days (FFD).

Featuring in The Hub, the show’s central gathering point, Louis De Poortere will be presenting the latest designs in its 2025 Ecorugs Collection. Launched in 2023 as the brand’s drive to a circular production model, Ecorugs now uses 40% recycled content and is fully recyclable through the Take Care Programme.

The 2025 Ecorugs Collection sees a range of new designs, a selection of which will be on show at Flanders Flooring Days (FFD). This year, the hugely popular Antiquarian, Mad Men and Structures ranges will see new designs.

Visitors to The Hub will also be able to learn about the new outdoor qualities from Ecorugs. These new outdoor suitable rugs bring a layer of comfort to outdoor living spaces in various popular designs.

Alan Russell, Sales Director, says; “Flanders Flooring Days is really worth the trip for retailers as the region is at the heart of Belgium’s historic carpet and flooring manufacturing industry.”
info@depoorterelouis.com • www.louisdepoortere.com

Beauflor gets Creative at Flanders Flooring Days
Beauflor will be relaunching its Create digital design concept at Flanders Floor Days this June.

Beauflor’s Create concept has become the benchmark in flexible custom design for vinyl flooring and for this year’s Flanders Flooring Days (FFD), the Belgian manufacturer is relaunching the programme with more focus on co-creation.

Create utilises Beauflor’s advanced digital print technology to allow almost any image to be printed on to its vinyl flooring. The flexibility of digital printing also means that custom designs can be produced quickly and at low order volumes. To relaunch Create, Beauflor will immerse visitors in a journey of design discovery, culminating in the installation of designs created through the programme in its studio.

Chris Roberts, Regional Sales Director, says: “We’d love to welcome the UK flooring industry to our showroom throughout Flanders Flooring Days. For everyone, it’s a great opportunity to get up to speed with our product developments as well as experience how our Create programme is changing the way people think about vinyl flooring. The digital technology behind Create is really impressive and a visit to our showroom, which is just half an hour’s drive from Kortrijk, will give a unique insight into the concept.”

Visitors will also be able to discover the latest trends and enjoy an exclusive glimpse into Beauflor’s 2026 launches.
www.beauflor.com

F. Ball visits overseas exhibitions
F. Ball and Co. will exhibit the latest advancements in flooring installation product technology at exhibitions in Europe and America next month as it looks to expand its international presence and help increasing numbers of flooring contractors worldwide work to higher standards, with greater speed and efficiency.

It will showcase its high-performance subfloor preparation products and adhesives for floorcoverings at Flanders Flooring Days, which takes place at the Kortrijk Xpo, in Kortrijk, Belgium from 2 – 5 June. F. Ball will be present on stand 252, where the company is looking forward to meeting with new and existing customers and partners in Belgium and beyond.

Commenting on the company’s presence at these events, F. Ball export business manager for EMEAA Jonathan Goold said: “We are looking to show more flooring professionals around the world how innovations in flooring installation products technology can help them exceed customer expectations. These exhibitions are a great opportunity to do this, and we hope to see as many people as possible at our stands.”

For further information on F. Ball and Co. Ltd. Call 01538 361633, visit www.f-ball.com or follow us on X @FBallUK
www.f-ball.com

Explore your way to win
With over 100 years of experience, Ibexx is a Dutch manufacturer and supplier of high-performance carpets, rugs, luxury vinyl tiles and heterogeneous vinyl. The company is proud to offer a broad range of stylish and durable flooring solutions at fair, competitive prices.

“At Ibexx, we are heroic pioneers on a mission,” the company says. Speed and agility are in its DNA, driven by a relentless focus on quality and an unparalleled speed of service. The company’s customer-centric approach is your compass to success, helping you serve your clients with confidence and efficiency.

Adaptability is Ibexx’s strength. The company expertly navigates the ever-evolving market to respond quickly to changing demands. With a comprehensive product range, it aims to completely unburden you. The manufacturer’s experienced advisers act as your guides, helping you find the perfect flooring solution for any requirement. Thanks to its efficient cost structure, Ibexx delivers both quality and value, empowering you to stay competitive without compromise.

Like true explorers, Ibexx thrives on freedom, innovation and the pursuit of excellence – always seeking the best routes to meet your needs and overcome challenges together.

Looking for a flooring partner you can rely on? A manufacturer that delivers on its promises, day in, day out? Visit Ibexx at Flanders Flooring Days!

Ibexx. Explore your way to win.
Find the company at stand 102 in The Hub – Kortrijk Xpo.
+31 (0)38 792 01 43 • www.ibexxflooringgroup.com


A look back at 2024
Before we return to Kortrijk Xpo for this year’s Flanders Flooring Days, it’s worth taking a brief retrospective of 2024’s event. Last year saw FFD celebrate its third edition, really putting the European trade fair “on the international map,” organisers said. The event attracted no fewer than 4245 visitors from 78 countries across the various showrooms and ‘The Hub’.

Since 2022, producers of hard and soft flooring and related products have been coming together for the sector-wide trade show Flanders Flooring Days. It started with leading producers welcoming visitors to their showrooms and production facilities. More than ten well-known names from the sector took part, all within a radius of 25 kilometres. And the founding partners, Associated Weavers Europe, Balta, Beaulieu International Group, Belysse, Lano, Unilin Flooring and US Floors - Coretec, are still central to the fair today.

Flanders Flooring Days remains a platform for the European high-quality soft and hard flooring industry. In 2024 the concept was expanded in every dimension. The event was open from 13 until 16 May and European manufacturers could come to The Hub to exhibit their products.

A total of 38 international participants chose to take part with a stand here at Kortrijk Xpo. Trend Talks were another new addition for 2024, with a full house enjoying Judith Van Vliet’s seminar ‘Do you speak color?’ The very accessible session provided direct inspiration for everyone active in the interiors sector, with valuable and actionable takeaways. The Design Language masterclass by Christine Boland was also received with great enthusiasm.

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Credit where it’s due

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The smart way to secure LVT: Pressure sensitive adhesives explained

July 28, 2025
Given customers’ high expectations for luxury vinyl tile (LVT) installations, it is worth taking the time to ensure optimum results when installing them. Certain adhesives can help with this, including achieving precise alignment. Tim Green, Head of Training at the F. Ball Centre of Excellence, provides a guide to adhesive selection, including formulations with a range of additional features. Pressure sensitive adhesives are ideal for the installation of LVTs because they form an instant grab upon contact, so, once positioned, tiles or planks won’t move about as contractors work. They also offer an extended open time, reducing the risk of late placement and making them ideal for installations where more complex designs or patterns are being created. Some pressure sensitive adhesives are also formulated to reduce the incidence of trowel serrations showing through thin vinyl floor coverings, referred to as “grin through”, affecting the appearance of the finished installation. Temperature tolerant requirements There are specific applications where additional performance characteristics will be important to maintain the long-term aesthetic appearance of an installation. For example, when installing floor coverings in areas subject to extreme temperatures and temperature fluctuations, it is recommended to use a temperature tolerant adhesive. High temperatures or extreme temperature fluctuations can cause floor coverings to expand and contract significantly, which may lead to unsightly tenting in floor coverings and gapping at the edges of LVTs over time. This can be the case in conservatories or rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, which are subject to “solar gain”, such as extensions with bi-fold doors. Temperature tolerant adhesives develop the high bond strength required to hold floor coverings securely in place in such environments, ensuring a long-lasting flooring finish. However, temperature tolerant adhesives have traditionally been “wet-lay”, and contractors requiring this type of adhesive have had to forgo pressure sensitive benefits. Hybrid solutions Advancements in hybrid polymer adhesives have enabled the development of high-performance vinyl adhesives with revolutionary combinations of properties, including combined pressure sensitive and temperature tolerant characteristics. For example, F. Ball’s Styccobond F49 Hybrid PS is a water-based, pressure sensitive vinyl adhesive that develops the extremely high bond strength and dimensional stability required to hold vinyl floor coverings 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 floor coverings in the initial stages of drying, making it a great choice for installing tiles and planks, intricate patterns and bespoke designs that need precise alignment. Styccobond F49 is also resistant to moisture, meaning it is suitable for use in areas subject to water and high humidity, including kitchens and bathrooms. Checking floorcovering compatibility As well as selecting adhesives suited to the requirements of a particular project, it is always advisable to check the compatibility of particular floor coverings and adhesives. For these purposes, F. Ball produces its industry-leading Recommended Adhesives Guide (RAG). It’s available on the F. Ball website and as a free app, as well as a printed booklet. So confident is F. Ball in the recommendations featured in the guide that it guarantees the resulting bond performance for the entire lifetime of the flooring installation, as long as the advised subfloor preparation and installation procedures are followed. 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 via phone and email. The F. Ball Centre of Excellence training and demonstration facility at F. Ball’s Staffordshire headquarters hosts training courses on achieving optimum results when installing LVTs that are free to attend for both flooring contractors and retailers. You can find details of upcoming courses and book a place for yourself or colleagues on the F. Ball website. F Ball & Co • www.f-ball.com

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Flooring group doubles profits in 2024

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Likewise AGM

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UK floorcoverings distributor Likewise Group held its annual general meeting (AGM) recently and the company is reportedly pleased to announce a continuation of the “very positive” sales trajectory reported earlier in the year as it approaches the end of H1 25. At the meeting, Tony Brewer, chief executive of Likewise, provided the following update to shareholders. Total gross sales revenue to 26 June 2025 has increased by 10.0% against the corresponding period last year, with absolute like for like being slightly stronger due to one less working day this year. The group with its two principal businesses, Likewise Floors and Valley Wholesale Carpets, continues to expand presence in flooring retailers and contractors through ever increasing point of sale displays, undoubtedly gaining market share despite what remains a subdued trading environment. Likewise will release its interim results for the six-month period ended 30 June 2025 on 9 September 2025.  Tony Brewer, chief executive of Likewise Group plc, said: “It is really encouraging to see the investments made in the last four years really starting to deliver meaningful improvements in sales and subsequent profitability. The group continues to make significant progress towards our medium-term objectives of sales revenue well in excess of £200 million. “We have great teams of people in our various businesses and thank all our employees for their contributions as we look forward to an exciting future. Furthermore, we very much appreciate the continued support of suppliers, customers, shareholders and all stakeholders.”

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Growing vinyl imports compensate for carpet fall in April

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.

Cormar Carpets announces internal promotion of Alan Harris to Sales Director

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.

“Small improvements” in consumers’ perception of their personal finances

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.

Belgotex acquires Lano

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.

New F. Ball Training Officer

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
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NICF offers its support as the home of professionals working in the domestic flooring trade

August 5, 2025
The National Institute of Carpet and Floorlayers (NICF) is the home of professionals working in the domestic flooring trade, supporting fitters and retailers who supply and install all types of flooring including carpet, laminate, luxury vinyl tile, naturals, timber and sheet vinyl. This not-for-profit trade association is the driving force behind raising standards of domestic floorcovering installation. The NICF strives to make your business as simple, stress-free and profitable as possible and serves the interests of members to promote business growth. The aim of the NICF is to promote excellence within the field of flooring installation; to promote understanding and awareness of the British Standards Code of Practice for the installation of floorcoverings; and to provide assurance of quality of workmanship to the public. The trusted community of carpet and flooring professionals Formerly the National Institute of Carpet Fitters, the NICF was founded in 1979 to promote the field of carpet fitting. While it has grown to incorporate a wide variety of floorcovering types, it has never lost sight of this original purpose. An in-person community of fitters and suppliers regularly joins together at trade shows and an annual Open Day to celebrate the domestic flooring trade. NICF Open Days feature live demonstrations and are supported by manufacturers and distributors, attracting enthusiastic engagement. A highlight of the year is the NICF’s prestigious Fitter of the Year Competition, a showcase for installers to demonstrate their expertise, craftsmanship and knowledge backed by industry support. The NICF also circulates a Master Fitter Newsletter every two months featuring member updates, event opportunities, “Meet the Member” profiles, retailer advice, upcoming FITA training courses, members’ top tips, and industry news. This newsletter helps members to stay informed, connect with each other and make the most of their benefits. Stand out from the crowd with NICF membership NICF membership provides customers with the confidence that fitters are experienced, professional, and work to a good industry standard. The NICF logo signals members’ commitment to quality, while a free listing on the NICF website, which attracts over 30,000 hits per year, helps members gain visibility and grow their business. Other benefits include a technical advice line staffed by experienced NICF professionals; a business support helpline; 15% off the Flooring Industry Training Association’s (FITA) standard training courses; support from Regional Representatives; access to the NICF Domestic Guide to Flooring; discounts on tools and workwear; and more. Membership categories reflect a fitter’s experience or a company’s role in the industry. For large retailers and manufacturers, Patron membership offers added visibility, featuring your logo on a dedicated NICF website page, in the Master Fitter Newsletter, and across social media platforms. The industry’s changing – be part of the winning team with the NICF  As the industry faces new challenges, strength and resilience will be key. The announcement that The Carpet Foundation is closing in August 2025, alongside ongoing competitive pressures, highlights the importance of being part of a strong and supportive trade association. In times of change, it’s invaluable to be a part of a community that “has your back”. The NICF has developed to become the voice of the domestic flooring industry, representing all levels of floor layers from apprentices to Master Fitters and flooring businesses, and influencing standards. And as co-founder of FITA, the NICF is ideally positioned to lead efforts to bring new talent into the flooring sector and ensure the continued growth of the trade. To find out more about membership criteria, visit: https://nicfltd.org.uk/NICF-Membership-Criteria/index.php To apply to join the NICF, visit: https://nicfltd.org.uk/Contact/Apply/ https://nicfltd.org.uk

Get the perfect Technique with LeoLine

August 5, 2025
Technique is the new cushion vinyl floor from LeoLine. From the striking terrazzo of Coronet to the concrete of Lurra and all-over grain of Elias; the new Technique cushion vinyl flooring range from LeoLine is an adventure into the stylish side of life. Introduced as one of the new ranges in LeoLine’s 2025 Collection, Technique brings many of the brand’s best features. It’s easy to clean and resistant to stains and scuffs thanks to its Superguard finish, safer for bathrooms and kitchens because of its added slip-resistance, and quieter too thanks to its class-leading 20dB impact sound reduction. David Wray, UK Sales Manager, says, “Technique may be all about style on the surface, but underneath it’s packed full of features that make it ideal for use across the home.” Technique comes in a wide array of 14 designs covering terrazzo, wood, concrete and stone tiles. Each feature LeoLine’s matt textured surface for a cushion vinyl floor that looks and feels like the real thing.  New Technique will be rolling out to retail stores this Summer, as part of the LeoLine 2025 Collection. 0800 032 3970

The brilliant new Berber From Louis De Poortere

August 5, 2025
The traditional bi-coloured designs of Morocco’s Beni Ouarain tribe are the inspiration behind Berber, the latest addition to the Structures Collection of textured Ecorugs by Louis De Poortere.

Another successful outing for the Kidderminster Carpet Manufacturer’s charity golf event

August 5, 2025
This year’s Kidderminster Carpet Manufacturer’s charity golf day raised £20,000, according to organiser Mike Dobson. “This is an increase of some 16% on last year’s result,” he said, “so will allow us to make larger contributions to the benefitting charities, which are MacMillan and a number of organisations local to the Kidderminster area.” Instarmac were winners of the Tuesday tournament, while the event on day two was won by Altro. Next year’s event has been moved slightly to avoid a clash with Clerkenwell Design Week. It will take place on 2nd & 3rd June, again at the Kidderminster Golf Club, thus opening up the tournament to more potential entrants. Entry forms will start to be circulated at the start of 2026. Mike concluded: “Thank you from the committee for the immense support that you gave us this year, and we look forward to working closely with you again in the coming months to, hopefully, make the 2026 event even more successful!”  To register your interest in playing or sponsoring next year’s event please email Mike Dobson at: mnjdobson@yahoo.com

Compact floors with a powerful punch

August 5, 2025
IVC Commercial’s compact heterogeneous vinyl floors bring the ultimate in heavy-duty flooring that still looks great. With the Iperform 70 and Adriatico 70 compact sheet vinyl ranges from IVC Commercial, you can unlock heavy-duty performance for a floor that never lets your customers down.

Maximum Bronze with Max Reflections

August 5, 2025
The premium Max Reflections profile range from floorwise welcomes two new versions of brushed bronze into its range of contemporary finishes.
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