interiors monthly july 2009

C A R P E T S F U R N I T U R E R U G S B E D S L A M I N A T E U P H O L S T E R Y V I N Y L

TCRRetail theatre

YourfloorsFlooring 2.0

SovereignA new classic from Morris

Interio

rsMonthly

July2009

July

2009

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Beautiful homes deserve beautiful furniture

A classic rustic French influenced design of elegant curves and modern clean lines that will fit perfectly into town or country environments. The Lyon Bedroom Collection uses the warm tones

and natural imperfections of the solid American white oak and oak veneers to produce beautiful, unique pieces of furniture.

Lyon Bedroom Collection

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Tel: 0845 606 7004 Email: [email protected] www.wguk.comBSee us at the Manchester Show

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www.interiorsmonthly.co.uk 9

Andrew KiddEditor

The Sovereign collection, in warm goldenoak with antique distressing, is one ofseveral new collections on show at standC41 at the Manchester Furniture Show.Tel: 0141 300 7200.

Interiors MonthlyEditor: Andrew KiddT: 01732 766 333 E: [email protected]

Furniture advertising (South): Tim BodenT: 01732 367 757 E: [email protected]

Furniture advertising (North): Jarrod BirdT: 01565 659 414 E: [email protected]

Carpet and flooring advertising: Joanne MillerT: 01732 766 344 E: [email protected]

Sales executive: Ben WatkinsT: 01732 367 757 E: [email protected]

China sales agent: Jane DaiT: 00 86 755 8292 5229 E: [email protected]

Published by Interiors Media Limited124 Pembury Road Tonbridge Kent TN9 2JJT: 01732 367757 F: 01732 352063E: [email protected]

Registered in England no. 6397722

Printed by Headley BrothersDesign by Icon Colour © Interiors Media Limited

Editor’s comment

WHAT NOW FOR ALLIED?Events have an annoying habit of happening just aspublishing deadlines loom, and this month is noexception. As I sat down to write this column, newsemerged that Allied Carpets’ owner has filed anotice of intention to put Allied Carpets Propertiesinto administration.

This is the subsidiary that owns Allied’s stores and islikely to see a large number of stores close as part of awider refinancing and restructuring of the chain. Thisis expected to have been completed by the time youread this.

Owner turnaround firm Hilco, which owns Alliedthrough offshore investment fund Sigma Capital, hasbeen reviewing the loss-making business since buying itin March.

Placing Allied Carpets Properties into administrationwould allow Hilco to exit the leases of poorlyperforming stores – a similar strategy that MFI used lastyear when it placed MFI Properties into administrationbefore the group’s ultimate demise.

The question is how many of the UK’s second largestflooring retailer’s stores will be closed? Estimates haveranged widely. The Financial Times reported that a ‘coreand substantial number of stores will continue to trade’,but whatever the final number of branches – I expectup to half of the 218 stores to close – it marks the startof a new chapter for Allied.

The bigger question is, what will Hilco do with whatremains of Allied? As I’ve said before, Allied lacks amarketing message to attract shoppers and for thoseconsumers who do cross the threshold, the shoppingexperience is lacklustre. If Hilco can fix these issues aslimmed down Allied could prosper.

No doubt there will be much media coverage of theevents which will not do Allied any good in the shortterm (I’ve already had telephone calls asking ‘Is it truethat Allied has gone under?’). This is the time forretailers to stress their stability.


TCRRetail theatre



July

2009

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12 Virgo strengthens store base

14 Sales down: market share up

16 DIY chain exits bedroom market

22 Furniture profile: TottenhamCourt Road

28 Flooring profile: Yourfloors

42 Carpet: brand values

48 Living and dining: marketmovers

54 Bedroom: storage solutions

58 Cabinet: product heroes

60 Show guide: ManchesterFurniture Show

64 Upholstery: marketing matters

66 Show preview: National FloorShow

72 Show review: ICFF

9 Comment

10 Contents

32 New products

76 Entertainment

78 Final polish

Contents

News

Features

Regulars

Interiors Monthly 2009 Awards

National Floor Show show guide

Manchester: the review

Carpet: where next?

Next issue

10 Interiors Monthly July 2009

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Stand B11 - Manchester Furniture Show 19th-22nd July

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Department store and homeretailer Vergo Retail hassignificantly strengthened itsposition with the purchase of12 stores from the East ofEngland Co-op – its secondmajor deal this year.

Vergo owns Lewis’s inLiverpool, Robbs of Hexhamand Sunderland’s Joplingsdepartment store. In Februaryit bought Derry’s departmentstore in Plymouth and fourHomemaker stores from thePlymouth and South West Co-op.

The department storesVergo acquired are Carr Street,Ipswich; St Stephen’s Street,Norwich; Market Place, GreatYarmouth; Long Wyre Street,

Colchester and Station Road,Clacton-on-Sea. The Homestores affected are: Felixstowe;Stowmarket; Clacton-on-Sea;Stanway; Witham; Dovercourtand a non-Home outlet inColchester.

Two small Home stores inHalstead and Leiston will beincorporated within the Co-op’s existing supermarketslocated alongside.

David Thompson, Vergochief executive says the groupis looking at expanding theproduct ranges at its newstores. ‘There is scope forsignificant further growththrough the expansion ofproduct ranges across all of the stores and this is

something we will be lookingat, at an early stage.’

In the spring the East ofEngland Co-op had warned itwas considering closing fourof the Home stores. It thenbegan talking to Vergo aboutselling those branches beforenegotiations widened.

Richard Sampson, East ofEngland Co-op chief executivesays the sale of thedepartment stores allows it toconcentrate on its profitablefood stores across the region.

‘The decision to move awayfrom non-food stores after somany years has not been aneasy one to take, but the Co-operative movement hasgenerally moved away from

operating department storesand no longer has the scale ofpurchasing power it once hadin this area of business.’

The Co-op will still own thefreeholds of the stores.

‘We are pleased that thisdeal will secure theemployment of our colleaguesand maintain a strong retailingoffer at the stores concerned.In the current economicclimate maintaining jobsecurity is a key priority. It willalso enable our customers tohave the opportunity tocontinue shopping in thesestrategic locations,’ he says.

The stores made up about5% of the group’s turnover,about £21.5m.


News

The country’s largest flooringinsurance claim handlingcompany has been bought byLloyds TSB as part of a£19.5m management buyout.

LDC, Lloyds TSB’s privateequity arm, is investing£11.6m to buy IndependentInspections and sistercompany Ansa from parentMavinwood.

The management team, ledby Steve Watkins, chiefexecutive will all becomeshareholders. The deal issupported by a £10.6mpackage of debt and workingcapital facilities from YorkshireBank.

Jonathan Bell, LDCinvestment director says it isbacking a first ratemanagement team which hasbuilt two market leadingbusinesses. ‘We believe both

companies are not onlyresilient to the challengingeconomy, but also well placedfor future growth in theirchosen markets through acontinued focus on excellentcustomer service.’

Watkins says: ‘LDC’sinvestment reflects theconfidence we both have inour future potential and,looking forward, their support

will allow us to strengthenour market leading position,invest for future growth andcontinue to provide qualityservice for all our customers,existing and new.’

Independent Inspection’scustomers include Direct Line,Norwich Union, Legal &General and Zurich.

Insurance claims are a majorsource of turnover for many

flooring retailers, althoughwith lower margins. Once aninsurance claim has beenagreed, the retailer carries outthe fitting of the replacementflooring and invoices theinsurance company. But theinsurance companies demanda 15% discount off of thevalue of the claim.

‘As the replacements arepaid for by the insurancecompanies and not thegeneral public, this is bluechip business where paymentwill be secure,’ saysIndependent Inspections.

‘Increasingly, insurancecompanies are insisting thattheir policy holders use theApproved Retailer Networkand we are instructed torefuse authorisation to anyretailer not part of thescheme.’

Vergo strengthens hand with 12store East of England Co-op deal

MBO for Independent Inspections

Independent Inspections handles flooring and upholstery claims

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





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NEWITALIAN LEATHERS



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Habitat has apologised afterits marketing messages onsocial networking websiteTwitter contained references tothe Iranian presidentialelection.

Twitter users complainedwhen Habitat’s messagesturned up in searches fortopics such as Iran andMousavi, the surname ofIranian presidential candidateMir Hossein Mousavi. Theposts also included otherpopular search items such asiPhone.

Habitat says Twitter’spopular search topics hadbeen pasted into its messages

without the company’sconsent.

‘This was absolutely notauthorised by Habitat,’ saysthe retailer. ‘We were shockedwhen we discovered whathappened and are very sorryfor the offence that has beencaused.

‘This was totally against ourcommunications strategy. Wenever sought to abuse Twitter,have removed the contentand will ensure this does nothappen again.’

Twitter has been widelyused by Iranians to follow thedisputed election and protests.The posts have been removed.

Victoria Carpets saw UK salesto independent retailers dropby 17.5% to £20.5m in theyear to 4 April.

The group says that becauseof the expansion of itscontract division, total UKsales dropped by 9.2% in theyear but it had gained marketshare.

Margins also suffered, withoperating margins falling from4.9% to 1.7% with operatingprofits dropping 70% to£408,000.

The company says:‘Victoria’s production capacityduring the year has beensubject to some underutilisation. However, thecompany moved relativelyearly to restructure the plantand labour force to meet theshort-term market demands,whilst still preserving theability to expand quickly asand when markets start torecover.’

Introduction of thermalsplicing technology in the UK’syarn spinning division is

delivering carpet yarns of ahigher quality to the tuftingdivision, says the company.This is expected to improvetufted carpet productivity and reduce the costs ofmanufacturing tufted carpets.

In the Republic of Ireland,sales declined by 16.4% ineuros which Victoria says ‘is aremarkable achievement in adomestic market estimated tobe down by over 30%’.Operating profit fell by 63% to£140,000.

Victoria’s main Irishresidential brand NavanCarpets saw turnover fall by16.2%. ‘Improved POS unitsand patterning were fed intothe market during the yearand this, coupled with strongpromotional activity, helpedNavan in off-setting the worstof the market decline.’

After paying an interimdividend (4p a share) for thefirst time in 28 years lastDecember, the group hasdecided to also pay a finaldividend of 4p share.


News

New technology will boost tufted carpet productivity

Victoria’s UK sales to independents fall 17.5%

Habitat sorry for Iran Tweets

A very long sit down: More than 20 companies in Sykkylven, Norway

cooperated to produce the world’s longest sofa – 890.25m – that spanned

the bridge over the fjord. The sofa has 600 sections and can seat 1,500

people. The project was led by Arve Ekornes, Ekornes director of product

development. The achievement also marks the company’s 75th anniversary

and highlights Norway as a world class centre for living room furniture.







NEWDINING RANGES

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




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DIY chain Wickes hasabandoned the bedroommarket in favour of bathroomswhile supermarket chainSainsbury’s has confirmed itsplans to sell furniture online.

Wickes has removedbedrooms and conservatoriesfrom its product mix, sayingthe markets are in decline.This freed up about 2,000sqftof floorspace in stores that ithas now devoted to 24bathroom suites.

‘It’s a big strategic changefor us. The bathroom marketis growing. People arespending more on bathroomsthan a few years ago,’ saysJeremy Bird, Wickes md.

Sainsbury’s has confirmedthat it will finally enter theonline furniture market as itattempts to catch up with rival supermarkets Tesco andAsda.

The chain will offer 8,000non-food lines from the third

quarter, but like Tesco will notoffer furniture in-store. This isdespite raising £445m to fundthe creation of 2.5million sqftof floorspace in the next 18months.

Justin King, Sainsbury’schief executive says now is thetime to take advantage oflower property prices.

Tesco sells furniture throughits Tesco Direct website whileAsda has standalone Livingbranches.


News

Soft furnishings for Cargo

Asda sells furniture in its Living stores

Wickes drops bedroom offering asSainsbury’s moves into furniture

Amtico fined

Edel TelenzoJim Osborne,Edel Telenzo’sMidlands salesrepresentativehas addedNorthernIreland to theareas he coversfor the Dutch tufted carpetmanufacturer.

HambergerParquetmanufacturerHamberger hasappointedHolgerBurkhardt ashead ofmarketing.

Balta GroupBalta Group has named CarlVerstraelen as chief financialofficer.

Ruddiman FurnitureDavidRuddiman,YourDepartmentStore chairman,has soldRuddimanFurniture tosupplier Origin Red toconcentrate on the Internetbusiness.

AireaKevin Henry, finance directorof Ryalux parent Airea has

stepped down from the boardand will leave on 28 August.

IVC GroupIVC Group hascompleted itsUK sales teamwith theappointment ofDavid Hughes(right) as sales manager forthe North East and NorthWest of England. The teamcomprises Hughes; StuartReeves, South of Englandincluding Home Counties; IanCowdell, Central Englandincluding the Midlands, SouthWales, Somerset, Devon andCornwall and Fraser Hamilton,Scotland and Ireland.

Upmarket vinyl companyAmtico has been fined£75,000 and ordered to payalmost £24,000 in costs aftera worker lost his ring fingerand suffered crush and burninjuries to his other fingersand forearm after trapping itin machinery.

Amtico pleaded guilty to abreach of health and safetyrules at Coventry CrownCourt recently. The court wastold that at the time of theincident in September 2007there was no guard to stopaccess to dangerous movingparts of the machine.

The court heard that whena strip of material failed to fallon to a return conveyor, theemployee went under themachine to cut it away, buthis left glove became caughtbetween the heated high-speed rollers.

Rick Zelley, Amticomanufacturing director, says:‘We take the safety and healthof our employees veryseriously and have reacteddecisively and responsibly sothis cannot happen again.’

Retail giant Steinhoff hasmoved to fill vacant retailfloorspace at its Bensons Bedschain by launching a softfurnishings chain – Homestyle.

Some 20 stores will open inBensons Beds branches, alongwith seven standalone stores.The branches, which will be

run by Cargo, will open bythe end of the year.

Bensons has spare retailfloorspace following thefailures of its formerconcessions with Rosebys andLand of Leather.

Clive Gilbert, Cargo md saysthe collapse of Rosebys and

other soft furnishings retailershad created an opportunity toenter the bedlinen, blinds,accessories and curtainmarket. He says consumerswant good value and easyways of refreshing theirhomes while the propertymarket is weak.


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Dorset See the new Dorset range at Manchester - stand D61

A perennial favourite, classic pine furniture broughtup to date with quality manufacturing techniques

AT T E N T I O N R E TA I L E R S

“Your customers need you to providequality products, good service, but above all in times like these,exceptional value for money.”

4 drawerchest

£59.90

3 drawerbedside

£19.90

Blanket box

£44.90

Dressing table set

£89.90

Doublewardrobe

£89.90

4ft 6in bed

£79.90

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Furniture profile

TOTTENHAM COURT ROADTHEATRELANDTottenham Court Road is the capital of London’s furniture offer, but does it provide retail theatre?

If central London had aFurnituretown, it would beTottenham Court Road, home todozens of furniture retailers. But dothe stores offer retail theatre, asense of excitement in theirdisplays?

Kate Hardcastle and RichardGomersal, Insight with Passionpartners, visited four stores: Heal’s,Habitat, Next and Cargo to findout.

Heal’s‘People want to be individual and thestore has to cater for that. It is offeringopportunities to the consumer. Onedisplay, for example, had everything frommetallic cushions to a 1960s Parker Knollstyle in the cabinetry, to a tartanarmchair. It’s about putting it alltogether,’ says Hardcastle.

‘The store is lighter, brighter andfriendlier than it used to be. There is verylittle play on the product information. It isjust a price tag – what justifies that pricepoint? Tell us a story tell us how we gotto that price.’

Hardcastle applauds the use of a fabricwall to show swatches rather than astandard swatch next to products.

‘It says colour and vibrancy. I know thestore changes its front of house veryregularly which is nice, it’s got fashion inmind. It’s interesting that there areaccessories with the furniture. A lot of

people who are doing both have got intothe habit of putting accessories at thefront. It’s a nice statement.’

The store’s clearance area also gainsGomersal’s approval. ‘It is set at the back,we’ve not been hit by any discountposters and that’s really refreshing to see.That’s well done. It has discretely put the area in. It still says value. You’re notgiven the impression that there is amassive sale on.’

The bed department was less pleasing.‘The POS wording is very similar toFeather & Black’s. At least it’s drawingattention to the mattress area but it’s notthe words, it’s the imagery that works.I’m reading that it’s mattresses and I’mgetting some prompts that maybe I needa new mattress. But as a consumer if I’mnot thinking about mattresses and I’mnot into that area, it’s a very defined sell.’

However, he says some problems needsolving.

‘The mattresses look like a sea of

Heal’s: about design

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Furniture profile

Habitat: consistent design theme

cream and I don’t know where to start.There are some fillings on the wall, whichis great as there should be clarity onfillings and what goes into a bed, but Idon’t know how that works. It’s all hardwork.’

Some of these issues would be solvedby having a member of staff present,Gomersal adds.

Moving from floor to floor of the store shows a clear missed opportunity:the stair walls are blank. The advice is to put large lifestyle images on the

walls and carry on the message. If the stairs are a missed opportunity,

then the main entrance area of the storeis a zone of misunderstanding, they say.Several different product categories areshoehorned into the area, creating acluttered, confused space.

‘This is hard work,’ says Hardcastle.‘Thankfully you can’t see it from thewindows, they are dressed quite nicelyand partition it off. Garden furniturespecialist, discothèque, high end furniturestore, accessories shop, gift shop and

there is a bakery. I don’t know. Andwhere am I? There is nothing to sayHeal’s. Everything is too close togetherand clashes.’

Gomersal struggled to find the store’sidentity during the visit. ‘There is nothingthat tells me it’s Heal’s. There is nocontinuity of themes that run throughthe store.’

Hardcastle feels Heal’s is about designand finding something different but thereare too many messages going on: ‘It’s abit jumbled’.

HabitatNext door at Habitat, the moodimmediately lightened. ‘The displays arereally together. I can tell where I am, itsays Habitat. It is not trying to diversifytoo far out of the area. Look in anydirection and you can see strongly puttogether areas, really strong collectionsand themes with good colour stories. It

takes it through all the products, fromthe £1.29 glass to the colour wall, to thefurniture,’ says Gomersal.

‘If Heal’s was the home of designers,this is more the home of design. There isa more consistent design themethroughout.’

Hardcastle again highlights the lack ofproduct information but says it’s easier to

live with less information as it’s a lowerprice point. ‘It has a good offer, withgood colour stories coming though. Itknows its market. It is still selling towardsthe top end so more product informationwould be nice – why you should buy it?A bit more focus on the VIP products isneeded to add a bit of excitement in-store,’ she says.


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Furniture profile

Next: a good vibe, but some

confusion

Cargo: was there a major clearance?

NextThe final store visited was Next, where amember of staff was handing outbrochures at the door. Products aredisplayed in roomsets of different styles.And while there are no posters screamingdiscounts, there are lots of postershighlighting its credit offer.

Hardcastle was impressed by theswatch wall. ‘It’s great, it’s just a shameex-display products are propped againstit. The swatch wall immediately says tome that there is choice and I can take theswatch off the wall and put it againstproducts.’

The basement isn’t as loved as much asthe ground floor, says Gomersal.‘Consumers will be reluctant to try outthe beds, especially the one in the middleof the floor, but staged areas add heightand depth, although you have to have abig area. There is confusion – is it sellingthe beds or just the bedlinen? And thestaging is badly marked.’

‘It’s a good offer, very commercial,’says Hardcastle. ‘There are good sellingstories. There is a heavy promotion of thefinance but it’s done tastefully. There wasa good vibe with the music.’

She says the store could do better insome areas such as ordering. ‘Wouldn’t ithave been brilliant to see someoneworking there rather than being used asa dumping area?’

CargoCargo was the most disappointing store,typified by the lopsided paintings on thewall and a sofa being covered by a piece

of wood. Several members of staff werecleaning and there were postersproclaiming extra discounts wherever youlooked.

‘I can only put it down to there has to

be major clearance. There were thingsupside down, it was awful to look at.How can you go in there and look at thefurniture offer and think that’s what theydo?’ says Hardcastle.


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Flooring profile

On Yourfloors customers can check room measurements and order online

Heuga, Lano and Quick-Step while thefull Kersaint Kobb range has recently beenadded.

There are now some 3,000 productsonline including additions such as runnersand more patterns and Wilton carpets.

According to Laura Cohen, Yourfloorsmarketing manager, the changes haveresulted in more orders for samples.Previously it received a significant numberof sample requests which varied frommonth to month depending onmarketing activity. ‘Since thedevelopments to the website we havehad an increase month on month of43%, which is brilliant,’ she says.

Another major introduction is a fitting

and accessories section to encourage theconsumer to have the retailer carry outthe fitting, rather than a third-party.Knowing that their local retailer can offer the full package has given theconsumer more confidence to purchaseonline, says Cohen.

‘They are now presented with all thefacts upfront whereas before theconsumer may have contracted someoneelse to do this. It gives the consumer theassurance they need to buy online andthe retailer the opportunity to gain fromadditional aftersales services.

‘We are currently concentrating onfurther website developments such ascreating the functionality to enable

Ecommerce website Yourfloors.co.uk iscreating a one-stop flooring shop in itsquest to become the flooring expert. Thewebsite’s recent revamp is certainlyhelping it reach its target with advice andtrends pages and a wider selection ofproducts. Consumers are impressed asvisitor numbers have increased and theynow spend more time on the websitebefore visiting the retailers’ section toestablish prices or place an order.

Independent retailers can sell HeadlamGroup brands such as Crucial Trading,Georgian Carpets and Kingsmeadthrough Yourfloors along with brandssuch as Armstrong, Associated Weavers,Balterio, Beaulieu, Cormar, Domo, Egger,

YOURFLOORSONLINE EXPERTThe website has been improved, withmore advice, products, and inspiration

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Flooring profile

Visitors can browse The Gallery and choose from some 3,000 products online including Montana

Caption

retailers to include their costs for fittingand accessories, creating a one-stopflooring shop. This we believe will makethe website even more user friendly asthe consumer only has to make onetransaction.’

Cohen says that since the revampshoppers spend longer looking atproducts enhanced by roomsetphotography before refining their search.The Flooring Guide has also provedpopular as consumers have all theinformation in one place to make aninformed decision.

‘Since we’ve launched the new pagesthe average time a user spends on themain Yourfloors.co.uk website beforegoing to a retailer’s website has gone upto around five minutes. We also have atremendously low bounce rate at justunder 2% which demonstrates the qualityof traffic that is being driven to thewebsite,’ says Cohen.

So what products are they buying?‘There is a real mixed bag of products.

Because the website offers such a vastchoice across all floorcoverings it is hardto define a top selling range as ouroffering is so diverse,’ she says.

‘We’ve had orders for traditional twistsin both manmade and wool rich fibresand yes, there have been some colourstoo, which is great to see. Likewise we’vehad orders of wool striped carpet andsome top end Wiltons.’

It has seen significant rug ordersreflecting their status as easy onlinepurchases, while vinyl orders have beenmixed, from traditional stone tile andwood effects to bright zingy patterns asconsumers are being braver.

For laminate Cohen says there’s beentrends towards more grey teak andwhitewashed distressed finishes.

‘The website has such a diverseproduct offering, which reflects our wide

consumer audience, we cater foreveryone’s taste; there really is somethingfor everyone and any home,’ says Cohen.

The most popular search method is bycolour and room, rather than brand,suggesting that consumers aren’t initiallylooking for price comparisons or havevisited stores beforehand.

‘Any consumer when they come to thewebsite will know two things: whatroom and what colour spectrum (such asneutrals) they want,’ says Cohen. ‘Whilethey’re online, our job is to make it as

easy as possible for them to find whatthey’ve searched for, but to also presentother products which inspire them whichis done through the landing pages, TheGallery and roomset imagery throughoutthe website.’

A previous concern was consumersgetting the measuring wrong beforeplacing their order. This has seen themeasuring information improved.

‘Since we’ve made improvements tothe measuring your room page, madethe calculator more user friendly and

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Flooring profile

Marakech: runners have been added to the product offering

Splash Mila vinyl is available in contemporary designs and colours

offer a 24-hour check measure facility, we have seen our average order size increase.This shows that we are providing enoughinformation for the consumer to orderconfidently online,’ says Cohen.

Yourfloors has met its target for signedup retailers and has full nationwidecoverage with just under 2,000 registeredretailers. The number of actual livewebsites is lower due to retailers goingthrough the ePDQ application.

The revamp has proved successful, butthere is more to come. Yourfloors isworking on the photography so thatalmost every range has an inspiringroomset to look at next to a close-up ofthe product, allowing consumers tovisualise it in their homes.

‘We’re also looking at special offers andincentives for consumers to buy online.That’s just to mention a few,’ says Cohen.‘There will be many more updates,Yourfloors.co.uk will continue to evolve –we’re aiming for Yourfloors.co.uk to beseen as the flooring expert, offeringadvice, tips and insights into the latesttrends and ultimately the websiteconsumers visit when they’re buying anew floor.’

28_30floor_IMjul.qxt 25/6/09 18:28

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31_IM0709:xx_IM0709 1/7/09 15:25 Page 1


New products

2

351 Quick-Step’s Parquet collectionincludes the Villa (pictured), with atriple-strip motif; Palazzo featuring longwide planks with subtle joints andCastello with its long planks and subtlejoints. All are available in matt, silk orsatin finishes. Visit www.quick-step.com.

2 Manhattan Square, from VictoriaCarpets, is available in eight colourwaysin a square-style design. Featuring highand low loops, as well as being tip-sheared, it gives the appearance of anelegant looking carpet in luxuriouscolourings. Made from 100% pure wool it comes in 4m widths. Tel: 01562 749 300.

3 Pownall has added Fenland Loop to itscollection. Made from 100% Britishwool, the contemporary stripe design isin six neutral colourways in 4m and 5mwidths. Designed to coordinate with thepopular Fenland Textures range, itencourages homeowners to be more

creative with carpet bycombining textured twistswith striking loop designsto add interest anddefinition. Tel: 01706 716 000.

4 Combating sound andsoaking up minor subfloorirregularities, the Acousticarange of wood andlaminate underlays fromFloorwise offers the idealcombination ofperformance and value. Therange’s four products:Compact, Good, Better andBest, deaden the sound of wood and laminate floors while also helpinginstallers to eradicate minor substrate irregularities for a secure and reliable floating floor installation. Tel: 01509 673 974.

5 Taking the beauty and natural allure of

stone flooring in more than 30 designs,Wonderstone SR is the latest cushionedvinyl flooring range from IVC’s Leolan brand. Its 2.8mm thickness and0.3mm wear layer means it canwithstand use in the busiest of homesand is backed by a 10-year wearwarranty. Tel: 00 32 5665 3211.

1

4

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33_IM0709:xx_IM0709 1/7/09 15:26 Page 1


6 CPW Furniture has introduceda bedroom storage solutionwith a range of wardrobe topboxes designed to fit its rangeof Romney pine wardrobes.Turning wasted space intohandy and attractive storage,the wardrobe top boxes can besupplied new or as retrofititems. There are five paintfinishes, a range of lacquers,waxes or unfinished. Tel: 01797 225 014.

7 For ultimate comfort andsupport, Vogue Beds hasadded to its electric beds rangewith Memorymatic andPocketmatic. Both have multi-zoned pockets, are hand-tuftedand feature drawers, whileMemorymatic has 20mm ofmemory foam. Vogue Beds offersthe high standards of quality andluxury with these models, as withexisting products, at competitiveprices. Tel: 01455 841 257.

8 The Leolan brand is setting anew benchmark for cushionedvinyl flooring in Wondergrain SR.Featuring the Superguard stainresistance system, it is available in3m and 4m widths while newdesigns include Ardeche, Burgosand the ebony Madagascar. Tel: 00 32 5665 3211.

9 Kettle Interiors’ mahogany

Pembrooke bedroom collection isnow refined and ready forimmediate delivery. In responseto feedback from retailers and todeliver the best possiblecombination of quality and value,Kettle Interiors has enhanced therange with a new finish and extratouches such as felt-lined ‘hidden’drawers and new handles. Tel: 0845 6781 155.

10 A series of lush and contouredcrushed velvets, the PremiereCollection by Prestigious Textilesbrings a touch of old-styleglamour to domestic upholstery,with the appeal enhanced bymodern, easy-care materials. It includes Glitz, a sumptuous all-over crushed velvet. Tel: 01274 688 448.

7

8

910

New products

6

34NP2_IMjul.qxt 24/6/09 19:18

35_IM0709:xx_IM0709 1/7/09 15:26 Page 1

Looking forpromotional ranges?

Your search ends here!

Join us at the 2009 Manchester Furniture Show to viewthe exciting launch of DaVinci Principals, a diversecollection of leather styles aimed specifically at thekey promotional market.

Visit us,19-22 July, Stand K1/K10 to find out more...

F u r n i t u r e Can you afford to miss-out?Can you afford to miss-out?

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Looking forpromotional ranges?

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F u r n i t u r e

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Discover why successful retailers are joining forceswith one of the UK’s best-value furniture suppliers.

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Stand K1/K10THE MANCHESTER FURNITURE SHOW

DaVinci Furniture LimitedDavenport Street

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www.davinci-furniture.com

36-37_IM0709:xx_IM0709 2/7/09 11:50


11 Limelight hasexcelled itselfonce againcombiningtraditionalbeauty withcontemporarycomfort at anaffordable price.The new Vegabedstead is in abright, freshwhite-glosswhile the stylishclean lines andshapes of theheadboard blendwith theminimalistic lookof the bedstead.Tel: 01455 850150.

12 Stair Make-Over is for DIYprojects anddistributorswanting freshsolutions to oldproblems,eliminating fussand offering aquick yet lastingfix. Available infive finishes it ispackaged in atwo-tread packboosted byfitting kits andother ancillaries.Tel: 00 314 02086222.

13 Orac Decor’srange of coving/cornicemouldings bringscreativity, styleand detail to anyinterior. The newXL Collectioncomprises seven extra large mouldings, primarily for tallhouses, that give decorators room to manoeuvre because themouldings can be placed both horizontally and verticallydepending on the desired result. Tel: 01483 271 211.

14 Amtico International has revitalised its Amtico.com website.

New products

13Designed to inform and inspire, the onlineresource helps home owners choose the rightproducts for their interior space. User friendlywith a fresh style and clear layout, the websitefeatures three core areas: Inspire me, Show meproducts and Inform me. Tel: 0121 745 0800.

15 Scriva is an exquisite collection of deep pile velvets from Kai,available in 38 tones including soft muted shades of pebble,oyster and mocha as well as fresh vibrant brights of turquoise,aqua and lime. The colour palette also includes rich crimson,deep aubergine and plum. This opulent fabric is suitable forupholstery, curtains and cushions. Tel: 01707 635 258.

11 12

14

15

38NP3_IMjul.qxt 24/6/09 14:58

Discover a stylish collection of highly individual furniture your customers will love.Every piece of Woodside furniture is designed and manufactured to the very highest standards. So whatever you choose, quality is guaranteed. Call one of our agents todayfor an exclusive appointment to visit our trade showroom.

South: Gary Priday - 07968 112403 North: Eddie Haetzman - 07968 112414 Scotland: Ian Crowther - 07930 314077

Woodside Furniture Ltd., Unit 4, Wreakes Lane, Dronfield, Derbyshire S18 1LNT: 0114 229 0741 W: woodsidefurniture.co.uk

Five distinctive rangesone inspired choice

Northern Ireland: Dougie Yeates - 07850 313237Lincolnshire: Graham Adams - 07711 036127

39_IM0709:xx_IM0709 1/7/09 15:27 Page 1


16 Seconique will be launchingstunning dining, occasional andbedroom ranges in the latest finishes,including the ultra chic Charisma inwhite (pictured) and black gloss atThe Manchester Furniture Show. At acompetitive £115, it’s a sure winner.Visit www.seconique.co.uk or tel:0121 506 4841.

17 Ryalux has created the perfectfinishing touch for the luxuryRiverside Suites Hotel in Sligo,Republic of Ireland. Working with thehotel’s interior designer, NoreenBrady, the Ryalux design team crafteda bespoke striped carpet for thehotel’s foyer, hallway and staircases,and recommended its FenlandTextures carpet for the bedrooms ofthe suites. Tel: 0161 762 3030.

18 Striking new shades are flying theflag for Cormar Carpets’ versatileNew Oaklands collection. Thecontemporary collection, which nowcomes in three pile weights – 32oz,42oz and 50oz – has been infusedwith 13 inspirational new colours,including bold Crimson and deliciousMulberry, to sit alongside a bank offashionable taupes, greys andbrowns. Tel: 01204 881 234.

19 After 25 years of supplying to theupper end of the fitted bedroomindustry and to nationalshowhomes, Ashmoors is looking toexpand into retailers of upholsteredfurniture and interior designers, withits stylish and creative designs tofurnish any home. To see thecomplete range, visitwww.ashmoors.co.uk.

20 The Plantation Rug Companyhas added a new, interior-trend,must-have rug to the latest collectionof New Beginnings. Available in tworectangle sizes and power loomedwith 100% polypropylene – thisrug boasts practicality, durabilityand design. It is available to orderfrom July 2009 from The PlantationRug Company, Tel: 0161 430 8700or visit www.plantationrug.co.uk.

New products

17

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40_IMjuly.qxp:40_IM0709 29/6/09 12:17


Advertising feature

Steens is launching its largest selectionof kids’ furniture ranges.

It has spent six months developing thecollection.‘It is aimed at the qualitymarket sector, but still bringing Steens’value for money prices,’ says KeithRobinson, Steens UK md.

The collection will be on show at TheManchester Furniture Show from 19-22July. On display will be standard single

beds, mid-sleepers, high sleepers andbunk beds in four finishes: Natural Pine,Stained Pine, White Wash Pine and PureWhite MDF.

In addition there will be a range ofmatching colourful accessories includingtents and play tunnels and manymatching pieces of bedroom furniture.

Steens will also launch white ranges ofbedroom furniture, a Mexican look

collection and many other products atthe show.

‘To cope with extra demand forSteens’ quality Scandinavian flatpackfurniture we have recruited eight agentscovering all of the UK and the Republicof Ireland, and of course Alan Cozens (exChristie-Tyler and more recently salesdirector for Jay-Be) to look after majorkey accounts,’ says Robinson.

STEENS’ QUALITY ON SHOW

Alan Cozens

For moreinformation contact:Steens Furniture, Unit 5, BerrywoodBusiness Village,Hedge End,Southampton SO30 2UN

Tel: 01489 778 890www.steens.dk

41steens_IMjul.qxt 26/6/09 17:48


Carpet

CRUCIAL TRADINGBRAND VALUESDeveloping a consumer brand is vital, whichis what one company is working hard to do

Among the definitions for what a brandis on Wikipedia are: ‘A product identity,or brand image are typically the attributesone associates with a brand, how thebrand owner wants the consumer to

perceive the brand - and by extension thebranded company, organization, productor service. Brands should be seen asmore than the difference between theactual cost of a product and its selling

price - they represent the sum of allvaluable qualities of a product tothe consumer.’

When applied to the consumermarket, as opposed to the business

Wool Audrey in Sunrise WFS1

42_46_IM0709.qxp:Layout 1 1/7/09 13:10


Advertising feature

prizes of offer too, including a day’ssailing on the national president’s yacht.

‘The annual golf day is a greatopportunity to network with industrycolleagues. This year there’s also thechance to meet the new nationalpresident and as I only joined the FTBAas chief executive in February, I’mlooking forward to the opportunity to getto know more of our supporters.’

The culmination of the FTBA’s regionalgolf events, this year’s tournament isbeing sponsored by Santander Cardswith players vying to win the covetedchampionship cup for the best netscore. A full day of golf, with 13 trophieson offer, is followed by a dinner andtrophy presentation.

The tournament is a singles Stableford

Calling all golf enthusiasts! TheFurnishing Trades BenevolentAssociation (FTBA) is aiming to putproceeds from the 2009 National GolfChampionships on a par with last year’srecord-beating day.

The ever-popular event, now in its69th year, is on Thursday September 17at the prestigious PGA National Courseat The Belfry, Sutton Coldfield. All moneyraised from the tournament goes to theassociation – the industry’s onlydedicated charity.

‘A best-ever £12,700 was raised forFTBA funds last year and we’re hopingto at least equal that this year,’ saysFTBA chief executive Charles Kerrigan.

‘It’s a tremendous day on a top classcourse. There’s some exciting auction

full handicap competition open to menand women: the maximum permittedstroke allowance is 18 for men and 26for women. There are additional trophiesfor the best pair and best four plusprizes for ‘nearest the pin’ and ‘longestdrive’. Entries are limited to 72 playersand will be allocated on a first comebasis. Packages are available for bothgolfers and non-golfers. To book a place for your company,please download an entry form fromthe FTBA’s website (www.ftba.co.uk) orrequest one from the association on020 7256 5954 or by email:[email protected]. A range ofsponsorship opportunities is alsoavailable – contact the FTBA and askfor Charles Kerrigan.

JOIN THE FTBA FOR A GREAT DAYOF GOLF AND GOOD COMPANY

43ftba_IMjul.qxt 25/6/09 14:10


Carpet

to business market, the flooring industryhas few companies that shoppers wouldreadily identify as a brand.

One company that is working to createsuch a consumer brand is Crucial Trading.Inga Morris, marketing manager sums upCrucial as ‘innovation, creativity, beauty,natural, leading the way.

‘Its all about design lead products thatare different, with texture and colour atits heart. They have to perform well andlook amazing.’

Morris says that 2009 could be themost exciting year in the firm’s history. Ithas invested heavily in four newbrochures offering consumers an unique

way to try out the products at home.The brochures – Animal (wool), Vegetable(seagrass, coir, jute and sisal), Minimal(inspiration) and Individual (rug borders) –have Crucial’s 326 products, plusborders, printed at 100% on A4perforated pages so consumers can

The four new brochures

Crucial is also investing in the consumer press

Wool Shropshire rug in Clunton WSH404

42_46_IM0709.qxp:Layout 1 1/7/09 13:12

See the latest products including carpet, wood, laminate, vinyl,

rugs, tools and accessories

Talk to suppliers

Network with industry professionals

Discover the latest trends

The UK’s must attend event for the entire flooring industry

NationalFloor Show

For more information and to register, please visit:

www.nationalfloorshow.co.uk or call +44 (0)844 557 2348

www.nationalfloorshow.co.uk

8th - 10th September 2009 • Harrogate International Centre

The art of flooring

45_IM0709:xx_IM0709 1/7/09 15:27 Page 1


Carpet

tear out the pages and see what theproducts really look like in their room.

‘No-one has done anything like thisbefore in the industry. We’re trying tothings that have never been done beforebut that are grounded in practicality ofwhat our customer needs. Consumerscan completely take control and it helpsthe retailer get the sale.’

She highlights the introduction of amuch larger display unit that allows farlarger samples and its first full pageadvertisements in consumer magazines.‘We have to deliver and understand bothmasters. For the first time as a brand,retailers are allocating the space with thenew display stand.

‘Our consumer expects to becommunicated with as a brand. They arebuying a product that is different and can

be more expensive so want that brandpartnership in order to be reassured.

‘If people know they want a Crucialproduct, it makes it easier for the retailer.We have a story to tell and are aware ofour differences and promote it anddefend it.’

While Crucial is often associated withproducts such as sisal and coir, wool isoffering new opportunities. Morris sayseverything the company does has to bedifferent and cites the new shades in thewide, bold stripes of Audrey and theyellows, pinks and blues of Tiffany. ‘Inwool we are finding new methods thatallow us to create different things, either100% wool or combinations.

‘We always keep our feet on theground, products have to beconsumable. The aim is to releaseproducts that consumers design theroom around, rather than the sofa orwallpaper. We want people to think ofthe floor first, not as a finishing touch.’

Wool Popcorn in Silver WV404

Coir Boucle in Natural BN

42_46_IM0709.qxp:Layout 1 1/7/09 13:13

QQuuaalliittyy iiss bboorrnn aanndd bbrreedd......that’s why over 35 manufacturers choose British Wool to produce 350 quality carpet ranges every year.

BBRRIITT IISSHH WWOOOOLL

aabboouuttwwooooll..ccoomm

47_IM0709:xx_IM0709 1/7/09 15:28 Page 1


Living and dining

PRACTICALITYCLEVER SOLUTIONSConsumers want extending tables, hi-fi units and other useful storage solutions

With the stay at home society increasing,consumers are making sure their homesare comfortable and practical for dinnerparties or just watching the latest DVDson their widescreen TVs. And of course,they want value for money.

For the dining room, the consumer’sthirst for oak shows little signs of beingquenched, says Simon Ainge, KettleInteriors sales manager. ‘However, whatis clear is that they now seek even morevalue from the wood that was once aluxury purchase.’

Nathan’s Parisienne

Ainge says shoppers searching for valueoften want contemporary styles. As aresult of this it is launching the Americanwhite oak Monaco range this month.‘Monaco brings startlingly contemporarylines, giving the wood an almostfuturistic feel and certainly making it afurniture range very much for now.’

Extending dining tables are popular, he says. ‘Those consumers on the huntfor value contemporary oak are oftenfaced with the situation where space is a premium and so items such as

extending dining tables are a great andimportant addition to any range cateringfor this segment – maximising spacewhen necessary and minimising impactwhen not.’

In contrast, Jackie McGarvey, SweetDreams sales manager says tables do notneed to extend to be a good seller. ‘TheSweet Dreams bestseller is Harewood,which doesn’t extend. It comfortablyseats six with a width of 1.8m. Anextending table is often viewed as anadvantage but it certainly doesn’t

48_51Liv_IMjul.qxt 24/6/09 18:26

Exclusive (U.K) LTDThorpe Drive, Thorpe Way, Banbury, Oxon, OX16 4UZT: (0044) 01295 701114 F: (0044) 01295 701014e-mail: [email protected]

Cassia Range

Our bestselling Cassia range is being launched inblack at the Manchester Furniture Show 2009.Make sure you visit us (stand A11) to view our

stunning selection of Glass and Marble ranges.

49_IM0709:xx_IM0709 1/7/09 15:04 Page 1

Nathan’s Shades

shoppers keen to buy matching pieces. ‘Although it’s early days for us yet, as

Sweet Dreams has only been sellingdining and living ranges for a matter ofmonths, we’re broadly finding consumersare buying matching sideboards, coffeetables, table nests and sofa or lamp tablesat the same time as they’re making adining table purchase.’

One area of living room furniture thatcontinues to generate sales is homeentertainment.

A sizeable number of consumers stillwant a unit to put their flatscreen TV onrather than a wall. ‘While wall-mountedTVs and home cinemas find a place inmany contemporary styled homes, a lot

determine a sale. Our extendable diningtables such as Kirkgate, whichunextended is the same size asHarewood, are also popular.’

For Andrew Cochran, Nathanmd extendability is essential and allits tables do so. ‘Our latest tablesextend, some have both a singleand double extension and others asimple flip-top action that doublesthe size of the table.’

He says: ‘Living and dining isour bread and butter and iscertainly holding its own, despite atough environment. We are adding newmodels to all of our ranges to furtherbroaden consumer choice, as Nathanpurchasers tend to be brand loyal.’

Cochran reckons that with the currenteconomic climate consumers are stayingin more and entertaining at home isincreasing, which means moreinvestment in formal dining furniture.

‘To meet this growing demand thisyear we have expanded our Shades teakrange with the addition of a number ofnew models specifically for the diningroom, all of which are proving verypopular with stockists.’ he says.

For McGarvey, selling the dining tableis key to generating extra sales, with


Living and dining

of householders find theirpresence as a focal point

overbearing and so there isstill a great demand for TVand entertainment stands thatoffer an unobtrusive place forflatscreens, freeview boxes,DVD recorders and gamesconsoles,’ says Mike HodgsonCPW md.

Its pine collection fits wellin traditionally styled homeswith corner units and cabinetsthan can be used as home

entertainment centres. With multiplefinish options of paints, lacquers or waxesthe units can match the decor.

Hodgson says: ‘For those with aslightly more contemporary taste, or forthose that simply have to have oak, theWealden collection also offers two verycapable solutions in the large plasma TVunit and widescreen TV and video/DVDunit. These units even have enoughcapacity to hide those favourite DVDs orvideo games.’

Cochran hasn’t noticed any decline insales of home entertainment units. Hebelieves this is because many purchasersare buying TVs that historically came withTV stands, but are not yet ready to

CPW’s wide TV corner unit

48_51Liv_IMjul.qxt 24/6/09 18:27


Living and dining

Sweet Dreams’ Harewood

Kettle’s Monaco

mount their newflatscreen TVs on thewall. So they need practicalfurniture on which to stand theirnew TV.

‘The whole home entertainmentsector is something we are lookingat closely in terms of new productdevelopment. Historically traditionalcabinet brands have lagged behindin addressing the sector, mainly Ithink because it is so fast moving,’he says.

‘The next big thing the furnituresector will have to respond to is goingto be convergence, when the TV isintegrated with a home PC, which willneed a very different home entertainmentstorage unit.’

Cochran is also concentrating on livingroom storage with the Shades LivingLibrary collection. Flexibility is the key:bookcases are available in mid or tall

versions, various lengths andadjustable shelving that allows the

freedom to use the pieces as displayunits or for book storage.

‘Living Library offers a practical additionto the Shades range and has beendesigned to stand alone or be usedtogether to offer the ultimate inattractively designed storage for the livingroom,’ he says.

The combination of style andpracticality is important for both retailers

and customers. ‘Space within

the home is at a premiumand consumers are

demanding more fromtheir living room

furniture in terms offunctionality without compromising onstyle. The Living Library range delivers on both of these levels and offers a size and configuration for almost any sizeof room.’

48_51Liv_IMjul.qxt 24/6/09 18:27

52-53_IM0709:xx_IM0709 6/7/09 12:30 Page 1

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Bedroom

If you take a peek underneath many bedsthe chances are you will find the spacecluttered with boxes, old photo albums,spare bedding, the occasional item ofclothing and numerous odds and ends.

But having drawers or a lifting basecould banish the mess and allow cleanlines to prevail.

Zed Hyder, Hyder Living md says thefirm has developed beds to answer thereal world needs of home ownerswithout compromising style, citing its Balibed. ‘This has up to four times thestorage of a divan with a lift-up base, butoffers a low slung bicast leather form thatis perfect for contemporary interiors.’ Bali,and the single bed Capri, use hydraulicsupports to aid lifting.

Sometimes a spare bed is needed whenfriends or family come to stay. For theseoccasions Hyder’s stowaway bedsmaximise floor space but quickly reveal atrundle frame that elevates to the mainbed height to turn a single into acomfortable and roomy double.

Alstons Teatro bi-fold wardrobes offer a

Kingstown’s Nicole has an extra height option

SMART STORAGEMAXIMISE SPACEMaking use of all available space is essential for bedroom storage options

Hyder Living’s Capri

variety of internal storage options withshelves, drawers and variable heighthanging rails

Storage in the bedroom has always

been a critical issue, so it’s important tohave sufficient options to meet the needsof smaller as well as larger bedrooms,says Peter Hewitt, Wiemann UK md.

54_56bedroom_IMjul.qxt 24/6/09 19:15

The latest bedroom and lounge/dining furniture brochure from Kingstown Furniture Limited features Nicole the most comprehensive collection in the Kingstown portfolio.

Request your copy from 01482 717225 or email: [email protected]

Kingstown Furniture LtdVictoria House

Leads RoadHull

East Yorkshire HU7 0BZ

BEDROOM & LOUNGEFURNITURE

Nicole – White painted finish

55_IM0709:xx_IM0709 1/7/09 15:05 Page 1


Bedroom

Welle’s Roma makes the most of cornersAlstons’ Teatro

Wiemann’s LIvorno

‘Wiemann must provide one of themost versatile bedroom storage systemsyou can get, short of custom building.I’m particularly impressed with theconcept of our new Livorno range, whichincludes a corner unit that can becombined with both hinged door andsliding door wardrobes. These optionscan go to the left or the right of thecorner unit and with cupboards startingfrom as little 50cm wide, right up to 4m.This system will ensure not an inch ofwall space is wasted in most sizes andshapes of room,’ he says.

Internal accessories from Wiemann aremany and varied, ranging from pullouttrouser, tie and belt racks, utensil trays,shoe racks and internal drawer systems.‘We’ve even got some nifty hanging railswith integral lighting,’ he adds.

Mike Hodgson, CPW md saysconsumers sometimes need to increasetheir storage space but don’t want to buynew furniture to achieve this. The firm’sRomney range has wardrobe top boxesthat solve this problem, as well as hidingaway any items already stored on the topof the wardrobe.

Kingstown has tackled the issue with

its Nicole range. This offers the choice ofextra height wardrobes in both single anddouble hanging as standard, dressingtables with mirror and stool and morethan a dozen different chests of drawersare available along with matchingbedsteads and headboards.

Manufacturers need to become more

clever with their storage options,according to Matthew Kutas, Welle UKagent. He says ideas such as using thespace behind headboards and makingmore use of corners for storage areproving more and more popular asconsumers look to utilise every last cubic inch.

54_56bedroom_IMjul.qxt 24/6/09 18:29


Advertising feature

Dining, bedroom and occasional furniture supplier WoodsideFurniture’s showroom and distribution centre is located inDronfield near Sheffield. Joy Cullen, operations manager hasbeen involved with Woodside since the company’s foundationin 2006.‘We may be a relatively small company, but our modern

premises are equipped to deal with the logistics of handlinglarge shipments of stock. For example, batch sample qualitycontrol checks are in place to ensure the stock is received inexcellent condition with no damage,’ she says.Maintaining customer relationships is just one of the many

roles Cullen has. However, when it comes to sourcing newbusiness the company recently expanded and now has fiveagents covering the UK.‘The major strengths of the company are quite simple really:

we have excellent people, excellent attitude and excellentproducts. In addition our customers can be assured that weoperate from a healthy financial base, which is vital in theseuncertain times. We have all witnessed companies that havefolded and left their customers stranded and out of pocket.’The main production of the products is in the Far East,

although all new ranges are designed by UK designers, as it isimportant UK house sizes are taken into consideration whennew ranges are being developed.‘Among several success stories this year is the Nimes

bedroom range (below and top right) with its clean, simple lines

that ensures it fits seamlessly into any bedroom. It is finished ina warm chestnut colour that enhances and highlights the naturalwood grain. On the back of this success, a Nimes dining rangehas recently been introduced and has been well received, somuch so the agents have already secured display orders.’Other new ranges for 2009 include the Accent dining range

(above) made in oak with a feature aspen inlay. ‘With fourdifferent sized dining tables and an accompanying wide range ofcompact pieces, this collection makes the perfect choice forthose customers who have smaller living areas and allowsretailers a fully flexible range.‘We are constantly looking at ways to improve the product

and our customer support. If we haven’t visited you yet, why notcall me directly so we can arrange for you to visit our showroomor we can visit you with a show van.’Tel: 0114 229 0741; email [email protected]

WOODSIDE FURNITURE

57_IM0709.qxp:Layout 1 2/7/09 14:39


Cabinet

ORIGINALSDESIGN HEROESThe premium furniture manufacturer isadding lower price points to its portfolio

Good design that appeals to the currentmarket and security of supply are bigissues for many retailers. With areputation for manufacturing high quality,well-designed furniture and now part ofthe huge Samson group, Willis & Gambieris being approached by and doingbusiness with retailers that until recentlywouldn’t traditionally deal with it.

W&G recognised a need to providelower price point products while stillmaintaining its position at the higher end– something parent Samson does in theUS. To do this it has created a new brand:Originals.

Marks Symes, W&G chief executiveexplains: ‘At the lower end it’s not somuch the design aesthetic, it’s aboutfunctionality, be it an easy to expanddining table or a wardrobe that is easyto assemble.

‘We wanted to get back to a rangeof everyday classic items, so that’swhy we called it Originals. We wantsimple, functional furniture at the rightprice points.’

New York console table

Originals comprises dining andbedroom furniture and is likely to be ownbranded by retailers. Originals will bedebuted at The Manchester FurnitureShow this month.

‘There is lots of potential for otherlooks, for example in the way that, inupholstery, when Christie-Tyler launcheda niche people felt safe with itbecause it was C-T. We could becomethe 21st century version of C-T incabinet,’ he explains.

‘There are markets where there is onlyone major player, so we can competewith them. Consumers need a choice ofwhere to buy a particular look. Oftenwhere there is a major leader it’s becauseit’s often the only place retailers can getit from.’

There is a vast choice of importers forretailers but Symes says it can providesomething the others do not.

‘The significant difference is we are100% creating the designs – we are notgrazing Chinese factories and pickingstuff to bring in.’ Individual factories will

specialise in particular woods. ‘Bybringing our own design to the productit stands apart.’

As well as design and security ofsupply, retailers are increasinglyconcerned about the ethicalconsiderations of how materials aresourced and staff conditions. W&G’svertically integrated approach is designedto tackle these concerns while giving itmanufacturing advantages. ‘The verticalintegration allows us to introduceproducts very quickly. We don’t have totwist the arm of the factory to producemore samples, for example,’ he says.

Symes says customers are also attractedby W&G’s flexibility – they can buywholesale, containers, or containers ofproducts they already have orders for.Sister manufacturer Lacquer Craftidentified some years ago that the futurewas the smooth flow of products toretailers, he says, and W&G hasthis covered.

‘Everything is kept in stock in thewarehouse in China. There are 5,000

58-59_IM0709.qxp:58-9_IM0709 2/7/09 15:04


Cabinet

New York dining range

‘You have to identify what the retailerwants and give it to them. WithOriginals we will be operating onmargins that I’d never been able to dobefore in my career by sitting on theW&G infrastructure,’ he says.About half of the designs will be new

and while half are already in the market,W&G’s simplicity of supply isn’t, he says.Retailers are looking for ‘value that

you can advertise and keep customersinterested’, but he is aware that someimporters previously only operating atthe lower end are trying to move up,

containers of furniture all roboticallypicked,’ says Symes.Samson wants to create an European

cabinet market that balances the NorthAmerican market and to achieve thisSymes has needed to look outsideW&G’s established stable of products,hence Originals.

providing greater competition.Originals will have 13 ranges initially

but it is likely to increase soon. WhereasW&G produces more timeless classics,Originals will change with trends.The group is looking to increase dining

and living sales as a proportion of overallsales. Some ranges will expand fromdining/living into bedroom but not at thelaunch. Symes hopes that by January2010 the business will be balancedbetween bedroom and living/dining.‘The volume market is still wide open

and thanks to the the structure of thegroup we can aggressively go after thatmarket. I’m totally confident that by theend of 2011 we’ll be the market leaderin this sector,’ he says.‘Anybody can buy off the shelf, but

they don’t have the design strength thatwe have. The product is going to bethe hero.‘We are putting in a very good sales

team and have the support of theW&G infrastructure behind the brand.The last thing retailers want isinterruption to supply.‘We’re using the same quality control

packaging and mechanisms as used inW&G. Retailers are looking for thisresource, they are looking to consolidatetheir supply chain.’

New York striped dining chair

New York coffee table

58-59_IM0709.qxp:58-9_IM0709 2/7/09 15:21


Show guide

MANCHESTERFURNITURE SHOWMore than 100 companies will be exhibitingat Manchester Central from 16-19 July

Earth Imports A23Ecofurn A63Exclusive UK A11Expoline C11FFeblandA50Firman Leisure D19Freement Furniture UK B63Furnico D23GG&P Furniture E61G Plan Cabinets C41GST Global Sourcing C25Gielen-Wolters D65Gleneagle Woodcrafts D15Global Homes D61Gradi Salotti A31HHarrison Bros B33Heartlands B71Highgate Beds D13High Value Enterprise E21Homes N Living Industries E21Homestyle GB B41Hyder Beds A33IIncanto Group D12

Icon Designs E65Indoor Solutions C11Inside Paradise E80Interlink Furniture Solutions B30International Furniture UK C31Italian Furniture A65JJansen International C2KKettle Interiors A58Kevin France B55Kidsaw B21Komandor E23Komfi B35LLaser Ticketing A36LAS Upholstery J1

MMJS Trading A80Meka-Block B19Morris Furniture C41Multiserve @ Home A60

NNew Trend Concepts Charter Suite 3-5NHC Technology A35

AAsia Medialine E75At Home Furniture D3BBC Chairs E67Besp-Oak Furniture B61BM Furniture C21Blue Bone D71Bo Peeps D18Bridge Mill Studio D9Buoyant Upholstery Charter Suite 2CCarlton Furniture C35Casabella Company B81Century Move Furniture E21Cheetah Upholstery E67Classic Furniture A75Core Products C11DDa Vinci K1Da Vinci Cabinets K10Danalight E81DB Mirrors A32Deluxe Beds B45Denton Retail Systems E7Drive Medical B36E

60_62manche_IMjul.qxt:xx_IM_0709 29/6/09 12:20

UU NN CC OO MM PP RR OO MM II SS II NN GG II NN TT EE GG RR II TT YY.. UU NN PP AA RR AA LL LL EE LL EE DD RR EE SS UU LLTT SS ..

Copyright 2009 Lynch Brothers Licensing Corporation

Serving the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom

We don’t have to brag and boast. Our clients happilydo that for us. And, you can rest assured that we holdsigned and dated proof, including contact addressesfor each and every testimonial we use.

"I was greatly impressed with the response to the initialmail out letter, which produced some 600 people through

the door within the first two hours, and 1,000 over theopening day."

Richard Nunn - Managing DirectorRichard Cook Furnishers, Ltd.

26 May 2009

"I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for a successful sale, and in particular, congratulate you

on your team."

Ann Foy - Director Foy & Co. Ltd.25 May 2009

"During what has been a difficult trading period for manyretailers has proven to be a successful time for us due in

part to the promotion of the Lynch Sale. I would nothesitate to repeat it in the future."

S. G. Glover - Managing DirectorWorld of Furniture

5 May 2009

"As you have no doubt heard by now, our recent LynchSales promotional sale has been a great success, and hasincreased our business in April 2009 by more than 200%

compared to last year."

Mr. Andrew Burgess - Managing DirectorFurniture & Bedding Superstore

28 April 2009

CCaallll tthhee LLyynncchh SSaalleess CCoommppaannyy ttooddaayy ffoorr aa ccoommpplleetteeppiiccttuurree aanndd ttoo rreevviieeww oouurr oonnee ppaaggee ccoonnttrraacctt.. OOrr,,vviissiitt oouurr WWeebb ssiittee:: wwwwww..llyynncchhssaalleess..ccoo..uukk

We ThinkOur Clients

Say it Best.

CONTACT GARETH PRICE1 STANLEY ROAD, EMSWORTH, HAMPSHIRE PO10 7BD

TEL: (0) 1243 378369 WWW.LYNCHSALES.CO.UK

®LYNCH

SSaalleess CCoommppaannyyEEssttaabblliisshheedd 11991144We’ve got the nose

for a good storyBreaking news - every weekday

www.furnishingreport.com

61_IM0709:xx_IM0709 1/7/09 15:05 Page 1


Show guide

NMC A12OOld Charm B96One2Source A16Originals C81PPrivilege Furniture D11RRainbow Upholstery A10Rawson & Baines Interiors D9Relaxateeze C41Responsive Designs C40Restwell B36Ruddiman A10Rugrats B30SS&B Furniture E67Sandringham Fine Art F1Sasaki E81Sawyers Agencies C35Seconique A51Seduta d’Arte C95Sessio D1Shell Furniture D63Sim Hup Seng E21SJ Units A27SJS Furniture A81Sleepstyle C41Sleeping Zone Mattress Co A18Smart Trading A30Sofa UK A61Sofitalia D12Steens B31 + B25SWS Imports E15Syed Furniture B1TTCH Furniture Charter Suite 1TCS The Complete Service B11Tempus C11Totem D75UUniversal Furniture D77VValue Mark A66 + A70WWelcome Furniture A41Wilde Java D67Willis & Gambier C61Wood Bros B96Woodpecker Pine E85XXYZ Agencies B15YYour Department Store C3ZZone Furniture C41

60_62manche_IMjul.qxt:xx_IM_0709 29/6/09 12:21

63_IM0709:63_IM0709 3/7/09 17:17 Page 1


Upholstery

Wave captures the home cinema environment

Stressless’s new ‘playful’ marketing message

When the need to drive footfall has neverbeen so important, thinking that bitdifferently has become a vital aspect ofbusiness.

One such example is the programme of more than 60 events being organised throughout the year at placesas diverse as county shows, gardencentres, stately homes and passengercruise terminals by upholstery and living room furniture manufacturerEkornes.

According to Duncan Box, Ekornesmarketing manager, rather than waitingfor shoppers to come to them, retailersneed to come to consumers. He saysconsumers are spending money but not

necessarily on the high street orretail parks. Ekornes booksvenues, sorts out thelighting ormarqueeswhererequired, aswell as having the correct Stresslessproducts delivered to suit the localstockist’s customerprofile. Assistance isalso provided withstaffing, ordertaking, datacollection and follow-up.

The Blues recliner launched this year

has featured at many of the events. It isbeing supported by a strong promotionaland advertising package that can beformatted to retailers’ local markets,including key outdoor location andtransport poster sites, as well as locallifestyle titles and TV campaigns.

Several additional advertisements havealso been created for recliners, eachtailored to specific markets, for examplefamily, food, local or interiors orientatedmagazines.

While such events have beenintroduced, the firm has continued tofocus on refining its in-store displays.

Box says the company strives to have clarity in its in-store studios as‘showing off a brand such as Stressless near the entrance helps sell the whole store, allowing retailers tocreate extra sales both in upholstery andother areas’.

As part of this and its overallmarketing, this year’s advertisingintroduces a more playful mood for theStressless recliner in some of its creativetreatments (see ekornes.co.uk for more).

‘We wanted to add a humoristic tone

EKORNESFORWARD THINKINGAs it celebrates 75 years of trading, Ekornes’ commitment to strategic marketing is paying dividends

AKekornes_IMjul-1.qxt 25/6/09 18:29


Upholstery

Stressless Wave in fabric

The new Blues recliner has featured at many events

of voice, so the message of comfortbecomes more emotional and closer toeveryday life. For example, family, sportsand leisure themes which will addressspecific media or seasonal occasions,’says Box.

As well as its extensive collection ofrecliners, armchairs and sofas for thelounge, home cinema is a key sector forthe brand. Based on individual recliningpieces that can be linked in modularfashion, the look is streamlined andcontemporary.

Three models in particular: Arion, Spaceand Wave reclining chairs and sofas havebeen designed for the role. These can belinked using a Sector unit which becomesan integral part of the design. Thisprovides an armrest too, with a built-intable top that can swivel and a hiddenstorage compartment for remotecontrols.

An alternative is to use individualchairs, sofas or recliners with wedge-shaped corner tables. The angular lookallows for seating to take on a gentletheatre style arc.

Although it is generally associated withleather, the company also has a collectionof plain fabric ranges.

Consumer research revealed that manypotential customers wanted to buyEkornes models, but wanted soft covers.After three years of development, thesewere introduced in 2007 and are almost

of contract standard. Now there are fourfabric ranges available on all Stresslessmodels.

‘In addition to extra sales from fabrics,retailers are also enjoying additionalpurchases as customers who previously

went elsewhere for soft cover options arenow buying Stressless. The four rangesare in contemporary, warm and luxuriousplain fabrics: Cocoon, Natura, Oasis andPlacidus in finishes from flat weaves tosoft velvets,’ says Box.

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Preview

NATIONAL FLOOR SHOWHARROGATE COMMITMENTThe country’s only dedicated flooring show will again return to the Yorkshire spa town

National Floor Showorganiser UBM hasreassured theindustry on theevent’s future andwill be hosting morethan 120 exhibitorsat the HarrogateInternationalExhibition Centrefrom 8-10 September(Interiors Monthly,June).

So what canvisitors expect?

Asiatic is launchingthe Living Collection,including more than40 Harlequindesigns, 10 Layadesigns and severalother ranges.

From CormarCarpets will be itslatest wool loop andwool twistcollections. Alsobeing showcased isthe Primo Ultra, partof the Primo EasyClean portfolio.

Dr Schutz plans todemonstrate its latestproduct, PU Design,described by thecompany as aconcept for creatinga bespoke flooringdesign that suitsindividual interior,taste or particular needs. ‘It is aninnovative solution that quickly and easilytransforms tired, damaged or old floors ata fraction of the time and cost of anentire floor replacement.’

Also on show is sister brand Osmo’s

There will also bedemonstrations ofthe Polyx Oil ColourFoundation and theIndustrial Wood WaxFinish.

Windsor fromEdel Telenzo is oneof the rangesgetting its firstouting atHarrogate. A valuefor money 50/50carpet Scotchgardedwith an Actionbacbacking, it’s suitablefor heavy domesticand heavy contractuse. It has a two-tone fine ribbedstripe design offeredin five new colours,reflectingcontemporarytrends towardsgreys and browns.Chelsea is a moreheavily constructedthree ply 100%wool fine loopdesign in eightcolourways. Also ondisplay will be is thelatest addition tothe stripes TubeCollection: Xpress, arange ofsophisticated‘designer style’broad and

variegated striped options in shades ofbrowns, blacks and creams.

The firm’s ongoing programme of re-colouration and improvements continues,with a number of relaunches beingunveiled. These include Windsor’s

UV-Protection-Oil product designed toprotect, maintain and restore all types of wood from the effects of theenvironment. Other products on Osmo’sstand include Polyx Hardwax-Oil Rapid,Wood Filler, Decking Oil and Uviwax.

Rugs with Flair is introducing Starlet

66_69NFS_IMjul.qxt 24/6/09 18:36

The Home OfModern Day Saxony

Several New Ranges Are Due To BeLaunched This Summer.

P.O. Box 10468, Birmingham B46 1WN

Tel: 01675 433501 Fax: 01675 433521Email: [email protected]

WhereGreat

Floors Begin

S67_IM0709:xx_IM0709 1/7/09 15:31 Page 1

Above: Edel Telenzo’s Windsor in parchment

Right: Osmo will introduce Polyx Oil

Roger Vanden Berghe will be showingits fine polyester shaggy. Rather thanimporting tuft from India and China, ithas developed a specialist machine – said to be the only one of its kind inEurope – to produce the cut and loophand tuft.

The firm says: ‘Another key point is theprice as the loop is woven in polyprop,which makes Artic the most cost-effectivefine polyester on the market.’

Gaskell Wool Rich has an addition tothe Rusticana family, Rusticana Essence, aloop pile 100% wool carpet available in10 colourways.

New from Mr Tomkinson is the ClassicBerber range, available in two designsand six colours per design.

Georgian Carpets will be showing itsGeorgian Tresco 80% wool/10%Meltbond/10% polypropylene (wooltwist) available in 21 colours and 40ozand 50oz weights.

The 80/20 Georgian Twist has a newweight – Elite – added to Deluxe andSupreme while the Georgian Garrick Twist

sister design, New Greenwich, plus NewHamilton and New Sydney.

Contract qualities are a key feature ofthe Edel Telenzo offering along with thelaunch of its latest tile programme withmany ranges having been overhauled.

New Hercules, a classic random fleckdesign and New Caesar, a more subtletonal contrast effect, are two popular100% polypropylene loop pile carpets,available in 4m width rolls. The eightnew colours – a range of reds, greens,browns, greys and blues – are morevibrant and offer bolder contrasts thanpreviously. Also revamped is New Mars, a1/10 gauge small, two tone, crossoverloop pile in a choice of 16 colours, manyof them new.

Engel Workwear is adding to itsWorkZone collection of clothing. Amongthe new styles are Soft-shell jackets thatare tri-laminated waterproof andbreathable; Hoody and Sweat jackets indouble bonded fabric with fleece lining;and three-quarter trousers with knee-padpocket.


Preview

80/20 is also available in three weightsand a dozen colours.

Georgian Impressions, a 100% woolloop pile Berber is in three designs withfive colours per design. Its Stoddardsbrand will show the Luxor twist 80%wool 15% nylon 5% Meltbond in 40ozand 50oz weight available in 16 colours.

Laser distance meter, alignment andlevelling equipment manufacturer, LeicaGeosystems, will highlight what it says isthe first laser distance meter with a fourtimes zoom digital pointfinder – LeicaDisto D5 and Leica Disto D8 withBluetooth. It says it is particularly suitedfor taking measurements in bright sunnyconditions. It will also display its Roteoself-levelling rotating lasers range.

Karndean continues to promote itsresearch and development intoimaginative, innovative and affordabledesign flooring by expanding its KnightTile range with a dozen designs. One willbe included in the show’s Top 10 feature.

Kentwood Floors will highlight itsCouture Collection, billed as ‘the very

66_69NFS_IMjul.qxt 24/6/09 19:09


Preview

Above: WorkZone by Engel Workwear

Left: Karndean is adding to Knight Tile

latest in high-fashion wood flooringconcepts’.

Couture has 19 styles which thecompany says is ‘inspired by flights offantasy and imagination which exploreexotic new dimensions in colour, textureand creativity. Each style is unique andfantastic, offering a new realm of designpossibilities for the contemporary home’.

A British wool classic in 10th gauge,Kingsmead’s 80/20 Lothian takes itsinspiration from the earthy hues of theLothian countryside. Manufactured inBritish wool in 40oz and 50oz pileweight, it is available in 4m and 5mwidths with 15 colours to choose from.

Argyll is another Kingsmead BritishWool Classic, with 12 new shadesinspired by a mineral palette. It isavailable in three qualities including theheavyweight Ultimate. Manufacturedusing British wool in an 80/10/10 mixincluding Kingloc polyester, the range ismade in 4m and 5m widths. POS andsampling will be available.

Kingsmead is debuting three ranges

range of modern and natural shades.Following growing interest in its

comprehensive range of aftercare servicesfor carpets WoolSafe is at Harrogatewhere it will update visitors on theprogress of its WoolSafe Approvedproducts. The organisation has beensigning up new chemical companiesunder the scheme and is testing moreand more products to ensure they areeffective and safe to use on wool andwool-rich carpets and rugs. Thisunderlines the importance chemicalmanufacturers place on their specialistproducts being WoolSafe Approved.

It will present its latest research intocarpet spot removers and the RegisteredInspectors directory, which can help solvecarpet complaints between home owner,retailer and manufacturer throughindependent and legally recognisedassessments carried out by speciallytrained and experienced inspectors.

As well as the exhibitors, there will be afull programme of seminars with thosetaking part including designer Jeff Banks.

featuring the marketing behind its stainresistant, easy to clean and colourfastnew Everlon brand of polypropylene:‘Everlon – Looking good for longer’.Products made in this fibre are said to bedurable and wear resistant. The newranges are Leader, a 4m and 5m widetwist pile in two weights and 13 colours;Enjoyment, a new bedroom carpet toreplace Joy; and Cheviot, a deep pileSaxony in two qualities and nine colours.

Novostrat will again showcase itsunderlay at Harrogate. Despite theeconomic climate, the firm’s top of therange wood and laminate Sonic GoldExcel achieved significant marketpenetration in its launch year, accordingto the company. Also on the stand will beits High Performance – High Valueproducts such as Comfort Superior andComfort Silver for wood and laminatefloors and the Graphite carpet underlay.

From Rugs with Flair is the Starletrange. Made of polyester with a mix of thick and thin yarn to create a luxurious soft pile, it comes in a 10 strong

66_69NFS_IMjul.qxt 24/6/09 18:37

Advertising feature


arrange a delivery dayand products aremanufactured to order.Obviously in this casethere is no need for largewarehouses for stock-holding as everythingmade is sold immediatelywith this system. Itpresents major costsavings formanufacturers.’

CEVA operates fromhome delivery platformsin Manchester,Newcastle, Abingdon,Northampton, Glasgow,Bristol and Exeter. CEVAalso has access toadditional resourceswithin its UK organisationto support customers’seasonal andpromotional activities andassociated peaks involume.

Evans says: ‘Becauseof our support,customers are able tofocus fully on their ownbusiness whether it bemanufacturing orretailing.

‘Home delivery is much more than atraditional logistics operation. It’s notabout, for instance, how many dropscan be made per day. You have to makesure the customer knows when you arearriving – this involves effectivecommunication with the end customer.It also involves delivering to the room ofchoice, removal and disposal ofpackaging to complete the job. The onlyway we can make our operations workis to have a really strong relationshipwith our customers and their customers.We operate as one team with commongoals to deliver excellent customerservice.’ To contact Jon Evans about CEVA’shome delivery services email him [email protected]

have to commit to the expense of theirown warehouses, call centre, vehiclesand delivery crews. With the CEVAshared user service, customers get thebenefits of the professionalism andexpertise of a major logistics companywithout having to guarantee largevolumes.’

CEVA finds this flexibility is especiallyattractive to those companies enteringnew markets – either expanding theirgeographical coverage or launchingproducts.

‘We are finding that a number ofproducts are now being made to order,’says Evans. ‘For these customers weoffer a Direct Home Delivery service.Once the sale has been made, theCEVA call centre contacts customers to

CEVA Logistics managesand operates a range ofhome delivery servicesfor a range of customersincluding Tesco Directand B&Q. The companyoperates a completerange of logisticsservices from globalsupply chain solutions,direct from factory tohome and operation oflarge fulfilment centres.

Jon Evans, CEVAsenior GM businessdevelopment explains:‘In home delivery weinsist on a high level ofprofessionalism at everystep of the process. Wehave the infrastructure inplace to deliver a goodservice – well trainedpeople, depots, callcentres, vehicles and ITsystems. We guaranteeour clients the highestlevel of service theircustomers demand.’

CEVA has beenmanaging homedeliveries since 1998. Ithandles over 500,000home deliveries a year via sevenstrategic platforms. Two and one man‘white glove’ home deliveries areperformed throughout the mainland,offshore islands and Northern Ireland.Convenient delivery slots are offeredover a five day schedule from Tuesdayto Saturday.

‘We handle upholstery, cabinet,bedroom, beds and mattresses,conservatory, flatpack, kitchens, gardenand leisure goods. The items arepurchased by the public through a rangeof channels including the Internet,catalogues and in stores,’ says Evans.

‘We know our customers operate in aprice competitive environment. Thereforeit’s important that we can provide all thesupport they need. Customers do not

HOME DELIVERY

70ceva_IMjul.qxt 24/6/09 15:01

71_IM0709:xx_IM0709 2/7/09 13:47 Page 1


Review

ICFFINTERNATIONAL STYLEFor contemporary flooring and furniture,New York was the place to be

More than 23,500 visitors converged atthe Javits Center in New York to see thebest in contemporary flooring andfurniture at the InternationalContemporary Furniture Fair (16-19 May).

Some 552 exhibitors took part,including 212 first time participants and263 non-US companies. The stronginternational flavour was demonstratedby the 14 trade delegations: AustrianTrade Commission, British EuropeanDesign Group, Designed in Brussels,Furniture Association of Portugal,Furniture New York, The FurnitureSociety, German Design Council, iSaloniWorldwide, Industrial Designers Society ofAmerica, Inside Norway, Interiors

Sang Hoon Kim’s Phenomena room divider

Jang won Yoon’s Janus chairs

72_74ICFF_IMjul.qxt 24/6/09 15:03


Review

Above: Nani Marquina’s Kala

Right: Council’s winning Divis table

Below: Ikea’s PS won an award

Below right: Magis won the seating prize

Bottom:Gandia Blasco’s Mangas

72_74ICFF_IMjul.qxt 24/6/09 15:03


Review

from Spain, Japan External TradeOrganization, Scottish DevelopmentInternational and Thai Trade Centre.

Among the highlights were NaniMarquina’s Kala rug, Atelier Takagi’sAmerican Gothic table, Jang won Yoon’sJanus dining chairs and Sang Hoon Kim’sPhenomena room divider. No room iscomplete without lighting and Misewell’sEileen interpretation of a standard lamp– it leans on the wall – caught the eye.

The ICFF Editors Awards once againhighlighted the stars of the event. AnneKyyro Quinn’s rugs took home the Textileaward and Gandia Blasco’s Mangascarpet by Patricia Urquiola won theCarpet and Flooring award. Councilscooped the Furniture award for its Divistable, Magis picked up the seating prizeand Misewell won the New Designeraward. Ikea’s PS range won the Multipleproduction award.

Top: Dada’s kitchen

Right: Anne Kyyro

Quinn picked up the

Textiles award

Below: Misewell’s

Nelson table

Right: Misewell’s Eileen

Below: Atelier Takagi’s

maple and lacquer

American Gothic table

72_74ICFF_IMjul.qxt 24/6/09 15:07


EXHIBITION DIRECTORY

19th – 22nd July 2009

www.manchesterfurnitureshow.com

14th – 17th September 2009& 1 – 5 February 2010www.lasvegasmarket.com

8th – 10th September 2009Harrogate Intenational Centre

www.nationalfloorshow.co.uk

25th – 27th May 2010ExCeL London

www.londonfurnitureshow.com

13th – 16th January 2010

www.heimtextil.messefrankfurt.com

SHOWER; BREAKFAST; CAR JOURNEY; WORK; FURNISHING REPORT; WORK;COFFEE; WORK; LUNCH; MORE WORK; FURNISHING REPORT; YET MOREWORK; CUP OF TEA; CAR JOURNEY; DINNER; GLASS OF WINE; TELEVISION;FURNISHING REPORT; BED

MAKE ROOM FOR BREAKING NEWS EVERY WEEKDAYwww.furnishingreport.com

Advertise your show here. Reach 6,500 key industry buyers in the most influential magazine in the interiors market,call Ben Watkins today on 07917 863453, or email him at [email protected]

Recruitment

75_IM0709:EXHIBITION DIRECTORY 3/7/09 17:02

Entertainment

For answers turn to page 78

ACROSS1 Squealed5 Russian parliament before 19179 Green _____ is the place to be14 The Time Machine race15 Manipulator16 Apportion17 Ripped18 Knitting stitch19 Scorch20 Totter22 Tapering, four sided pillar24 Shrew26 Singer DiFranco27 Moist with perspiration30 Unsaid35 Topic36 Semisolid mass37 Broad valley38 Sniggler’s catch39 Raise a grade?42 Urban scourge43 Type of school or cook45 Lazy, inactive46 Ham it up48 Palace of a sultan50 Whisk51 Young fellow52 Open space in a forest54 Erased58 Abjure62 Alchemist’s mercury63 Circular band65 Glamour rival66 Fuming67 Son of Rebekah68 Fool69 More secure70 Twist71 Soviet news service ITAR- ___

DOWN1 Hardens2 Gobs3 Director Ephron4 Cotton fabric5 Practice of duping6 Encroach7 Mal de ___8 Woody’s boy9 Acquiescence10 Period of 1,000 years11 Hindu princess12 Energy units13 Search21 Entrances23 Moisten while cooking25 Christmas item27 Paces28 In what place29 Conger catcher31 Uhuh32 Fortune telling cards33 Send34 Discourage36 Basic monetary unit of Ghana40 ___ Pillar, Wyoming41 Food and water44 Colour board47 Inflatable life jacket49 Collect50 Excellent53 Pertaining to the moon54 Speaker’s platform55 Pound of poetry56 Idle away time57 Sketched59 Charles Lamb’s pen name60 Material charity61 Workout count64 This ___ stickup!

Suduko Crossword

Easy

Difficult

Medium


76entert_IMjul.qxt 24/6/09 15:09

2003 – 13.6m Display trailer with 2000 Volvo FH12 380HP Truck. Trailer full air-con for heating & cooling. Kitchenette,internal sockets & lighting. Carpet floor & side rail system for double height display. Super Silent 10KVA 240v diesel

generator included. Side pedestrian door and rear barn doors. All on air suspension. Will sell trailer separately if required.

ALSOChoice of 2002 Volvo FH12 Globetrotter 380HP 4x2 Low Height Rigid Drawbars. Air Suspension Front & Rear.

6.0m Wheelbase. Tandem Axle Drawbar Trailer on Air. Cartwright Demount Equipment.Additional demount boxes (curtain or GRP sides) available if required.

ANDChoice of 1998 Volvo FL6 12Ton rigid trucks on air with demount gear.

Drawbar Trucks & Mobile Showroom For Sale

All above well maintained, FSH and in immaculate condition.

For further details & viewing contact:00353 86 8151717 / 00353 87 2307533

J

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Final polish

Wellgate shopping centre inits Project Retail competition.Think Dragon’s Den but witha store as the prize, ratherthan investment. The deadlinefor entries is 31 July.

FTBA helps out againSome £5,000 was awarded inone-off grants and holidayrespite break payments to pastand present industryemployees at the FTBA’srecent welfare grantscommittee meeting.

An emergency grant of£265 was awarded to 92-year-old Rose, now partiallysighted. She needed strongerprescriptions for reading anddistance, but the widow of aformer Manchester carpetcompany production controlmanager has no savings. Thecommittee helped with thecost of buying two pairs ofspectacles.

Frank, a 32-year-old formerfurniture company employee

suffers with stress and anxietyproblems as well as physicaldisorders. He was awarded agrant of more than £140 afterthe committee heard how heneeded a new electric cookerafter moving out of a hosteland into a flat last year.

Grants totalling some£1,000 were also awardedunder the Edenfield HolidayGrant Scheme.

A good deedFor every Sunnan lamp Ikeasells it will donate a Sunnansolar powered lamp tochildren in Pakistani refugeecamps and villages inBalochistan and the NorthWest Frontier. The specialversion of the lamp is tougherwith a battery that copes withhigh temperatures.

‘Millions of children can’tdraw, write or read aftersunset, limiting their horizonsand possibly their futures,’says Marianne Barner, head ofIkea Social Initiative. ‘We hopeour lamps are a small butimportant contribution toimproving the lives of childrenin developing countries.’

Dragon’s storeFancy a store with free orreduced rent? It could happenif you visit wellgatedundee.co.uk/projectretail. Threestores are being offered byPrupim, landlord of Dundee’s

Ikea’s Sunnan lamps

Entertainment answers

Easy DifficultMedium

First Samurai: Luke Riddingtoncollects the Top Team trophy at the

FTBA’s Big Shots clay pigeonshooting event. His Last Samurai

team (Luke, Tracey Riddington, NickCancea and Thosh Kellett) made it a

clean sweep also winning the Best Male and Best Female awards

(a repeat of 2008) and the Flurry.The event raised £3,400 on the day

and funds were swelled by a£10,000 donation from The Clare

Foundation. Since its inception theBig Shots event has raised £383,690

for the FTBA.

Free ChairsAntiques expert Judith Miller’sbook Chairs, celebrates morethan 100 of her favouritechairs, reflecting on theiriconic status, designers,historical facts, overall style,design details and ergonomicproperties.

Those featured range fromthe 1680 Wainscot chair andthe 1740 Louis XV chaiselongue to Marc Newson’s1988 Embryo and TomDixon’s 2007 Wingback.

The book is due to bepublished in September, priced£40 and Interiors Monthly hasa copy to give away. Simplytell us who designed the LouisGhost Chair for Kartell. [email protected] fax 01732 352 063.

Cash in the mattressesThe next time you take an oldmattress from a customer’shome have a look insidebefore disposing of it. OneIsraeli woman is reported tobe £600,000 adrift after herdaughter bought her a newmattress and threw out theold one with her life savingsstuffed inside it.

The daughter has searchedthrough tips that receive3,000 tonnes of rubbish everyday. So far no one hasadmitted finding it.

If only she’d got a retailer totake it away…

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TCRRetail theatre



Interio

rsMonthly

July2009

July

2009

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interiors monthly july 2009

Documents

t u r e r u g s b e

s t e r y v

r p e t s f u r n

t e u p h o

allied carpets owner

allieds stores

large number of stores

beautiful homes