It’s been five years since specialist events organiser Ocean Media Group took over the running of the UK’s premier flooring exhibition, The Flooring Show, which is now in its 61st year. Ahead of this year’s show, we caught up with event director Alex Butler to ask her about how it’s developed and what’s new this year.
Background
We started by asking Alex a bit about her background and role in organising The Flooring Show.
“I’ve organised market-leading B2B and B2C exhibitions for over 15 years,” she says. “I started working on The Flooring Show in 2019, and I haven’t looked back since. I’ve always had a strong interest in home interiors, so working on The Flooring Show brought together this passion with my love of live events.”
How has it developed since then?
“Within months of me joining The Flooring Show team, we were navigating the impact of COVID-19 on both the flooring and exhibition industries. Many lessons were learnt during this period, but a key finding was how resilient the flooring industry is. Since then, The Flooring Show has gone from strength to strength.”
Strength in numbers
How about in terms of numbers attending and exhibiting?
“We couldn’t be happier with the response we’ve had for The Flooring Show 2023. Last year, the exhibition attracted 42% more exhibitors than the previous year, and international visitors returned to pre-pandemic levels. With 181 companies currently confirmed for this year’s event, it’s already ahead of last year and showing no signs of slowing down.
“The exhibitor line-up is also unmatched, with over 400 brands to see all under one roof, including F. Ball and all of the big-name floorcovering manufacturers.”
“Registration is also performing incredibly well, tracking 10% ahead of the same period last year. We expect to welcome over 3,000 retailers, contractors, fitters, specifiers, interior designers, and developers to the spa town of Harrogate for three busy days of high-level business activity.”
New additions
What’s new at this year’s show?
“The latest addition to The Flooring Show’s line-up of unmissable features is the LVT Pavilion. With the ever-increasing popularity of this durable and versatile flooring solution, buyers will be able to visit this one-stop-shop and find the latest and greatest LVT brands all in one place.
“This year, we’re proud to confirm the show’s expansion into the King’s Suite to accommodate increased demand from exhibitors.
“In addition, the Demo Zone, Fitter Of The Year Competition and Wool Trends Centre are all back by popular demand.”
Trend setting
Are there any trends to look out for?
“Whilst neutral shades continue to be a popular choice, we’re seeing an increasing number of manufacturers catering for those wanting to inject colour into their homes. Carpets in rich jewel tones, such as ruby, emerald and sapphire, sit comfortably alongside the more traditional choices.
“With ever-rising utility costs, the conversation around the benefits of wool and the natural insulation it provides has never been more relevant. As seen in Hall C at The Flooring Show, the Campaign for Wool and Wool Carpet Focus Group, will be focusing on the theme ‘Keep Warm with Wool’ and showcasing new shades, design constructions, types and qualities.”
Future plans
What about in the coming years?
“The Flooring Show 2023 is sold out, and we’re currently running a waiting list for any brands hoping to be involved. As a result, we have exciting plans to expand into Hall Q next year.
“We will continue to focus on our core sectors (carpet, laminate, LVT, wood, vinyl, cork, grass, as well as underlay, adhesives, and tools), whilst exploring new ways to grow the show. Visitors will see an increase in premium brands with the introduction of a ‘Designer Area’, as well as more complementary products such as soft furnishings and outdoor flooring solutions.
“We’ll also continue to grow our audience of buyers via our multi-channel marketing campaign. Our team has already started to grow our database of UK retailers, ensuring we deliver an audience from all corners of the country. In addition, the newly launched Designer Area will attract more interior designers and top-end retailers.
“Ocean Media is committed to developing The Flooring Show so it reaches its maximum potential – the team and I are so passionate about its success, and can’t wait to see what the next few years bring.”
The Flooring Show takes place in Harrogate, at the Harrogate International Centre, from 17th – 19th September 2023. F. Ball’s stand will be located at Stand B1, Hall B.
For more information on The Flooring Show, visit the website here.