Recorded at the start of a new year for The UK Flooring Podcast, this episode sits down with Stuart, Founder and Managing Director of Make an Entrance, a UK manufacturer and retailer specialising in bespoke entrance matting and logo mats for both commercial spaces and homes.

From an unexpected early career in music to building and scaling businesses, Stuart shares how Make an Entrance has grown from traditional coir matting roots into a modern UK-made operation, supplying everything from residential orders to major brand projects.

One of the most meaningful parts of this conversation is the company’s partnership work with HM Prison services, centred on rehabilitation and skills development. Stuart explains how structured, supervised work and training can help people build confidence, learn practical skills, and improve employability after release. It’s a grounded, human look at doing business with purpose, while still maintaining high standards and quality control.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Stuart’s journey into business, and the surprising route that led him into matting and manufacturing
• How Make an Entrance moved from selling online to investing in UK-based production and why that decision matters
• The heritage side of the trade: traditional coir matting, craftsmanship, and what customers still value today
• Logo mats, commercial projects, and how retailers can make matting an easy add-on sale
• The rehabilitation partnership: why skills, routine, and training can genuinely help people rebuild their lives
• The realities of running a small UK manufacturer in 2026, including cost pressure and growth challenges
• Stuart’s biggest lesson: knowing your numbers, making decisions faster, and staying focused

Memorable Quote:

“I don’t want to be sat at 60 thinking, I wish I’d had a go at that.”

Guest Information

Stuart

Founder & Managing Director, Make an Entrance

Business enquiries: business@makeanentrance.com (FAO Stuart)

Where to Find The UK Flooring Podcast:

Website: https://theukflooringpodcast.co.uk/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theukflooringpodcast/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theukflooringpodcast/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tom’s in the studio with Sarah joining over Zoom for the final episode of 2025. It’s a proper look back at what the year actually involved, from client experiences and big trips, to the health scare that hit hard, and the reality of launching the National Flooring Awards (plus Momentum) at speed.

What’s Inside:

The 2025 rewind: quarterlies, training, community, and the moments that defined the year

“Costa del Tees”: kayaking, raft building, and why experience days shift mindset fast

Morocco: Mount Toubkal, Marrakesh, and why that trip stands out

The health scare: hospital reality, perspective, and the support that showed up

The Keswick Killer: the charity challenge, the graft, and raising thousands for stillborn baby charities

Flooring Show Harrogate: meet ups, live recordings, and more episodes coming next year

National Flooring Awards: independent judging, tight scoring, and why “pay for a trophy” is not the game

Momentum: building a business summit alongside the awards, speakers, logistics, and pressure

Alliance: why they cut non engaged clients, and what the community offers in real terms

2026 direction: fewer episodes, higher quality, and bigger guests

Memorable Quote:

“There’s nowhere to hide when the judging is done properly.”

Guest Information:

Sarah Cockerill (Mrs C)

Cockerill & Co

Momentum 2026: The Flooring Business Summit and National Flooring Awards

Tickets and National Flooring Awards nominations are live!

Date: Saturday 3 January 2026

Venue: Crowne Plaza Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE1 3SG

Timings: Momentum Summit 9:30am to 5:00pm | National Flooring Awards 7:00pm to late

One day. One industry. Unlimited momentum.

Get your ticket now:

https://www.cockerillandco.co.uk/momentum

Next National Flooring Awards date mentioned in the episode

Friday 19 September 2026

Majestic Hotel, Harrogate (The Ballroom), in partnership with The Flooring Show

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Big news, Martyn Cohen is officially joining Cockerill & Co. After a decade plus leading sales and ops across major flooring names, then launching MC Growth Consultancy earlier this year, Martyn is bringing his people first approach into the community. In this episode Tom digs into why he said yes, what he has learned helping retailers, commercial contractors and manufacturers, and how he will add firepower for our members in 2026.

About Martyn

Former senior leader at Headlam and Carpetright, now growth consultant working across retail, commercial and manufacturing. Known for building high performing teams, fixing recruitment bottlenecks, improving buying terms, and making complex installer set ups work in the real world, HMRC included.

What we cover

• The announcement, why Martyn is joining Cockerill & Co, and how the partnership works
• From redundancy to momentum, the first 8 to 9 months of MC Growth Consultancy
• The £2 to £3 million ceiling, when systems, people and process become the growth lever
• Two magic moments, franchise results and a commercial client that needed to scale capacity before sales
• People first performance, recruitment done right, culture, and honest conversations that avoid formal performance cases
• Third party fitter networks, pricing, VAT, HMRC headaches, and how to stay on the right side of the line
• Buying power, where the hidden points are in supplier terms, and why a thirty minute call can save tens of thousands
• Unplanned services that now matter, recruitment search, interview support, and prep for sale or full business exits
• Why the Cockerill & Co community works, who not how, and proof from peer results, not pitch decks

Key takeaways

• Growth is usually blocked by capacity and capability, not just leads or orders
• Recruit well, train well, support well, and you will keep good people
• Buying smarter puts profit straight to the bottom line, many miss it through sheer busyness
• Community beats going it alone, the right room saves time and money
• If we cannot add value, we will say so, the goal is impact, not invoices

Who this helps

• Independent retailers who want to scale without losing sleep
• Commercial contractors hitting operational limits
• Manufacturers building UK routes to market or fitter ecosystems
• Owners preparing to sell in the next two to three years

Chapter guide

00:00 Welcome back, and the announcement

02:00 Martyn’s journey, redundancy to consultancy

06:30 Early wins, franchise systems and commercial capacity

11:45 Risk, reputation, and why the pipeline kept growing

14:30 What Martyn brings, people, recruitment, HR and culture

18:30 Installer networks and HMRC, lessons from Carpetright

21:30 Buying power that moves the P and L

24:30 Recruitment as a service, interview help, and search

26:30 Prep for sale, valuation thinking and finding buyers

29:30 Why the community matters more than the features

33:00 Values, saying no when it is not a fit, doing the real work

39:00 How to get involved and next steps

Links

• Watch on YouTube
• Listen on Spotify
• Listen on Apple Podcasts
• Cockerill & Co, join the community or request a consult
• Connect with Martyn on LinkedIn

Work with us

Want a straight talking plan to grow, sort your people challenges, or unlock margin, reach out and we will set up a proper call.

Credits

Host, Tom Cockerill

Guest, Martyn Cohen

Produced by The UK Flooring Podcast

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Recorded as an exclusive bonus episode, this lively conversation lifts the curtain on the wild, chaotic and genuinely inspiring journey of Sam and Brad, better known as The Bald Builders.

From selling building materials online long before the industry was ready, to losing everything, sleeping in a caravan and an office, then rebuilding it all through sheer graft, relentless consistency and a camera phone, this episode captures a story you simply would not believe if it were not true.

Today, the Bald Builders juggle National Breakfast Radio on Fix Radio with filming social content, running their own building projects, and growing a loyal online community who tune in every morning and every evening without fail. But the path to get here involved failed businesses, being wiped out by a forty thousand pound hit, living hand to mouth, and taking on jobs they should never have taken simply to survive.

Packed with honest detail about how they rebuilt their lives and careers from nothing, how they grew their platform from forty thousand followers to a multi platform powerhouse, and what it really takes to stay relevant online in a crowded trade space, this episode is a rare look at the real story behind one of the UK’s most recognisable social media duos.

What You Will Learn in This Episode:

The true origin story of the Bald Builders

From an online builders merchant that launched fifteen years too early to losing everything in a single blow.

Why consistency still beats every algorithm trick in the book

Two videos every single day for eight years and how that discipline shaped their entire career.

How they accidentally discovered social media as a lifeline

Hiding their page during the hardest year of their lives, only to relight the fire when everything fell apart.

The moment they realised flowscreed could save them

A chance encounter on a job that turned into a complete pivot for their business.

Why being yourself matters more than being polished

Sam explains why authenticity lasts longer than viral hacks or gimmicks and why the trade sees through fakery fast.

The business model that changed their lives

No clients, no chasing invoices, just building and selling their own projects while filming everything they do.

How Fix Radio became a central part of their brand

A breakfast radio show built for tradespeople and why it works perfectly with the Bald Builders way of life.

Memorable Quote:

“People watch us because we are exactly the same on camera as we are off it. You cannot get caught out if you never pretend.”

Guest Information

Sam Hughes - The Bald Builders

Content creators, builders, presenters at Fix Radio

Fix Radio Breakfast: Monday to Friday, 6 till 9am

🎧 Fix Radio

https://fixradio.co.uk/

🎟 Momentum 2026 – The Flooring Business Summit and National Flooring Awards

One day. One industry. Unlimited momentum.

📅 Saturday 3rd January 2026

📍 Crowne Plaza Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE1 3SG

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Title: Cut my arm off and you’ll see flooring in my veins 

Recorded live at the Flooring Show 2025, this powerful conversation dives into the incredible career journey of Mark Ewart, founder of Apple Flooring, one of Essex’s most respected independent flooring retailers.

From major setbacks to remarkable comebacks, Mark walks us through his story, from early days in Dixons and Comet to navigating redundancy, launching multiple flooring businesses, battling serious health issues, and ultimately building Apple Flooring into a two-showroom powerhouse with a passionate team, loyal customers, and a thriving reputation.

Packed with honest insights into the real challenges facing retailers, the rise of “men in vans,” supplier frustrations, why client experience matters more than ever, and how Apple Flooring built a model based on simplicity, transparency, and everyday low pricing, this episode offers a rare and inspiring look at what it takes to grow (and sustain) a successful flooring business in 2025.

 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Mark’s full journey: redundancy, reinvention, and the birth of Apple Flooring
• 
  
• The rapid growth from a home office and two containers to two premium showrooms
• 
  
• The REAL costs of running a retail flooring shop (and why “men in vans” are hurting the industry)
• 
  
• Why exclusivity agreements and display stand pricing frustrate retailers
• 
  
• How Mark built a “one price fits all” model that keeps margins simple and customers loyal
• 
  
• Why Apple Flooring invests heavily in people, training, fitters, showrooms, and brand consistency
• 
  
• The secret to world-class customer experience (espresso included!)
• 
  

Memorable Quote:

“Cut my arm off and you’ll see flooring in my veins, when it’s your own business, it becomes a different animal.”

Guest Information

Mark Ewart

Founder & Managing Director – Apple Flooring

🔗 Website: https://www.appleflooring.co.uk/

🎟 Momentum 2026 – The Flooring Business Summit & National Flooring Awards

One day. One industry. Unlimited momentum.

📅 Date: Saturday 3rd January 2026

📍 Venue: Crowne Plaza Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE1 3SG

⏰ Timings: Momentum Summit 9:30am – 5:00pm | National Flooring Awards 7:00pm – late

🎫 Get your ticket now: https://www.cockerillandco.co.uk/momentum

🎫 Get your ticket now: https://www.nationalflooringawards.co.uk/

Where to Find The UK Flooring Podcast:

Website: https://theukflooringpodcast.co.uk/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theukflooringpodcast/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theukflooringpodcast

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Recorded live at the Flooring Show 2025, this episode of The UK Flooring Podcast features a fascinating deep dive into the world of Greendale Carpets & Flooring with Eamonn Prescott. With over 30 years in the flooring trade, Eamonn shares his journey from retail roots at Allied Carpets to leading one of the UK’s most respected buying groups. Discover how Greendale’s co-operative model empowers independent retailers, offers exclusive ranges, and keeps profits within the group, all while championing innovation, sustainability, and collaboration in the flooring industry.

What’s Inside:

• Eamonn’s flooring journey: From shop floor to industry leadership.
• 
  
• The Greendale story: How a small Lancashire co-op became a national powerhouse.
• 
  
• Why joining a buying group can transform an independent retailer’s business.
• 
  
• The power of exclusivity: How Greendale protects margins with unique ranges.
• 
  
• Sustainability, technology, and the future of UK flooring.
• 
  
• Real talk: The challenges of fitters, housing market stagnation, and adapting to change.

Memorable Quote:

“Strength in numbers isn’t just a slogan - it’s how independents survive and thrive in today’s flooring industry.”

Guest Information:

Eamonn Prescott – Sales Director, Greendale Carpets & Flooring

• LinkedIn: Eamonn Prescott

🎟 Momentum 2026 – The Flooring Business Summit & National Flooring Awards

One day. One industry. Unlimited momentum.

📅 Date: Saturday 3rd January 2026

📍 Venue: Crowne Plaza Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE1 3SG

⏰ Timings: Momentum Summit 9:30am – 5:00pm | National Flooring Awards 7:00pm – late

🎫 Get your ticket now: https://www.cockerillandco.co.uk/momentum

🎫 Get your ticket now: https://www.nationalflooringawards.co.uk/

Where to Find The UK Flooring Podcast:

Website: https://theukflooringpodcast.co.uk/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theukflooringpodcast/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theukflooringpodcast

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Recorded live at the Flooring Show 2025, this episode of The UK Flooring Podcast dives deep with Stephen Latham of J2 Flooring. From building an authentic LVT brand to pioneering UK manufacturing, Stephen opens up about attention to detail, quality control, and what’s next for one of the industry’s fastest growing names.

What’s Inside:

• The J2 story: From retailer frustrations to an industry leading LVT brand.
• 
  
• The rise of UK manufacturing and why quality control is everything.
• 
  
• The art of collaboration: Why “two heads are better than one” for J2’s success.
• 
  
• Inside the design lab: How J2 creates ultra-realistic, handcrafted flooring.
• 
  
• Future vision: Growth, innovation, and keeping people at the heart of the brand.
• 
  

Memorable Quote:

“Building a brand isn’t just about the name, it’s about confidence, quality, and keeping your ear to the ground with the people who use your product every day.”

Guest Information:

Stephen Latham – Managing Director, J2 Flooring

• Website: https://www.j2flooring.com/
• 
  
• LinkedIn: Stephen Latham

🎟 Momentum 2026 – The Flooring Business Summit & National Flooring Awards

Tickets and National Flooring Awards nominations are live!

📅 Date: Saturday 3rd January 2026

📍 Venue: Crowne Plaza Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE1 3SG

⏰ Timings: Momentum Summit 9:30am – 5:00pm | National Flooring Awards 7:00pm – late

One day. One industry. Unlimited momentum.

🎫 Get your ticket now: https://www.cockerillandco.co.uk/momentum

🎫 Get your ticket now: https://www.nationalflooringawards.co.uk/

Where to Find The UK Flooring Podcast:

Website: https://theukflooringpodcast.co.uk/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theukflooringpodcast/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theukflooringpodcast

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Recorded live at the Flooring Show 2025, Tom sits down with Ben Granville, Sales Director of Kellars, to talk about the company’s incredible rise from a small family operation into one of the UK’s fastest-growing flooring distributors.

Ben opens up about Kellars’ journey of rapid expansion, bold investments in warehousing, and how his team continues to deliver innovation and efficiency without losing the company’s personal, down-to-earth culture. From brand identity and customer service to the future of digitalisation in flooring distribution, this episode pulls back the curtain on how Kellars is shaking up the industry.

What’s Inside:

• The mindset behind scaling fast and how to keep quality consistent.
• 
  
• How Kellars uses branding, logistics, and customer relationships as growth engines.
• 
  
• Insights into the company’s bold distribution model and product strategy.
• 
  
• The importance of investing in people, communication, and keeping things simple.
• 
  
• A look ahead: how Kellars plans to keep innovating in 2026 and beyond.
• 
  

Guest Information:

Website: Kellars Flooring

LinkedIn: Ben Granville

🎟 Momentum 2026 – The Flooring Business Summit & National Flooring Awards

Tickets and National Flooring Awards nominations are live!

📅 Date: Saturday 3rd January 2026

📍 Venue: Crowne Plaza Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE1 3SG

⏰ Timings: Momentum Summit 9:30am – 5:00pm | National Flooring Awards 7:00pm – late

One day. One industry. Unlimited momentum.

🎫 Get your ticket now: https://www.cockerillandco.co.uk/momentum

🎫 Get your ticket now: https://www.nationalflooringawards.co.uk/

Where to Find The UK Flooring Podcast:

Website: https://theukflooringpodcast.co.uk/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theukflooringpodcast/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theukflooringpodcast

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Recorded live at The Flooring Show, Tom and Sarah deliver the tough love every flooring professional needs before heading into 2026. Tired of the “I’m too busy” excuse? They call it out, while giving you the blueprint to take control of your diary, reclaim your time, and build a business that doesn’t run you into the ground.

From digital scheduling hacks to the truth about holidays, overrun days, and why “busy fools” will be left behind, this episode is a no-filter reality check for the trade. The hosts also drop exclusive breaking news: a brand-new national event and awards designed to unite the flooring industry like never before.

What’s Inside:

• Why “too busy” is killing flooring businesses and what to do about it.
• 
  
• The power of diary discipline: how to lock in admin, family, and overrun days.
• 
  
• Why taking 5.6 weeks’ holiday could save your business.
• 
  
• The truth about customer experience, stand collecting, and retail inefficiencies.
• 
  
• How to market smarter with the data you already own.
• 
  
• Breaking news: details of the first-ever national flooring business summit and awards, happening 3rd January 2026.
• 
  

🎟 Momentum 2026 – The Flooring Business Summit & National Flooring Awards

The wait is over, tickets are now live!

📅 Date: Saturday 3rd January 2026

📍 Venue: Crowne Plaza Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE1 3SG

⏰ Timings: Momentum Summit 9:30am – 5:00pm | National Flooring Awards 7:00pm – late

One day. One industry. Unlimited momentum.

🎫 Get your ticket now: https://www.cockerillandco.co.uk/momentum

Where to Find Us:

Website: https://theukflooringpodcast.co.uk/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theukflooringpodcast/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theukflooringpodcast

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on The UK Flooring Podcast, Tom sits down with Oli Butler, a straight-talking voice in the flooring industry with 30+ years of experience. From his early days as a labourer on the Euro Disney build to leading high-profile commercial projects across Europe, Oli’s story is as raw as it is inspiring.

He shares the truth about big contractors, payment struggles, and why he built his business around doing things the right way — not the easy way. Expect unfiltered insights, wild site stories, and bold predictions about the future of flooring, including why resin flooring could change everything.

 What’s Inside:

• Plenty of swearing!

• Oli’s no-BS journey: from Euro Disney hotels to running his own flooring firm.

• Why he walked away from contract management and the “empty promises” culture.

• The highs and lows of commercial projects, from Legoland golf courses to Virgin cruise ships.

• His bold new idea: combining printed vinyl with resin finishes for truly custom floors.

• The truth about payment terms, work ethic, and why some firms are dragging the industry down.

👤 Guest Information:

Oli Butler

🔗 LinkedIn

This Episode is Brought to You in Partnership with The Flooring Show

The UK’s biggest flooring event is back in Harrogate from the 21st - 23rd September 2025 and you’re invited. From retailers and contractors to designers and distributors, The Flooring Show brings the entire industry together for three packed days of inspiration, innovation, and networking. And best of all? It’s completely free to attend.

GRAB YOUR FREE TICKETS HERE: https://invt.io/1fxbk9pmhtp 

Stay in the loop:

Instagram: @theflooringshow

LinkedIn: The Flooring Show

Website: https://theflooringshow.com 

​This episode of The UK Flooring Podcast is powered by J2 Flooring

J2 Flooring is one of the brands everyone’s talking about ahead of The Flooring Show 2025.

If you’re coming to Harrogate, trust us… Hall B, Stand B26 is where you want to be.

Go see what the fuss is about…​ you can thank us later

Website: https://www.j2flooring.com/ 

We Are Recording Live At The Flooring Show

Come and find us on Stand Q112 and be part of the action. Across all three days, we’ll be recording live, full-length sessions and mini conversations, with the voices shaping the future of flooring.

We’ve got a jam-packed schedule featuring 18 of the biggest brands, leaders, and professionals in the industry. Catch the live recordings in person and soak up the atmosphere at the show.

Where to Find Us:

Website: https://theukflooringpodcast.co.uk/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theukflooringpodcast/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theukflooringpodcast

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on The UK Flooring Podcast, Tom and Sarah sit down together for a very special episode and they’re bringing some big news with them.

From exclusive updates about the upcoming Flooring Show in Harrogate to the launch of a game-changing new project that’s been five years in the making, this episode is packed with behind-the-scenes insights you won’t hear anywhere else.

The pair also open up about what they’ve been up to personally, from family adventures (and a few unexpected dramas!) to their recent Mount Toubkal climb in Morocco with clients and friends from across the flooring industry.

Most importantly, they reveal a first-of-its-kind event in Newcastle, January 2026, that promises to cut through the noise, strip back the BS, and give retailers, contractors, and flooring professionals the tools to make 2026 their best year yet.

If you want to stay ahead of the curve and be among the first to secure tickets this is the episode you cannot afford to miss.

This Episode is Brought to You in Partnership with The Flooring Show

The UK’s biggest flooring event is back in Harrogate from the 21st - 23rd September 2025 and you’re invited. From retailers and contractors to designers and distributors, The Flooring Show brings the entire industry together for three packed days of inspiration, innovation, and networking. And best of all? It’s completely free to attend.

GRAB YOUR FREE TICKETS HERE: https://invt.io/1fxbk9pmhtp 

Stay in the loop:

Instagram: @theflooringshow

LinkedIn: The Flooring Show

Website: https://theflooringshow.com 

​This episode of The UK Flooring Podcast is powered by J2 Flooring

J2 Flooring is one of the brands everyone’s talking about ahead of The Flooring Show 2025.

If you’re coming to Harrogate, trust us… Hall B, Stand B26 is where you want to be.

Go see what the fuss is about…​ you can thank us later

Website: https://www.j2flooring.com/ 

We Are Recording Live At The Flooring Show

Come and find us on Stand Q112 and be part of the action. Across all three days we’ll be recording live, full-length sessions and mini conversations, with the voices shaping the future of flooring.

We’ve got a jam-packed schedule featuring 18 of the biggest brands, leaders, and professionals in the industry, catch the live recordings in person and soak up the atmosphere at the show.

Where to Find Us:

Website: https://theukflooringpodcast.co.uk/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theukflooringpodcast/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theukflooringpodcast

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The UK Flooring Podcast, Tom Cockerill sits down with Gordon Bowden from Forbo Flooring Systems to talk about what he’s been up to lately, his views on the current state of the flooring industry, and where he sees things heading next. From sustainability to shifting customer expectations, Gordon shares candid insights into one of the industry’s leading brands and how Forbo continues to innovate across commercial and residential markets.

What’s Inside:

• Gordon’s latest projects and role at Forbo.
• The biggest challenges and opportunities facing the flooring industry today.
• Forbo’s approach to sustainability and market innovation.
• Predictions for the future of flooring, from customer trends to product evolution.
• Quickfire insights: advice, lessons learned, and personal reflections from Gordon.

Guest Information:

Website: https://www.forbo.com/flooring/en-uk/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/forbo

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/forboflooringuk/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/forboflooringsystemsUK

This Episode is Brought to You in Partnership with The Flooring Show

The UK’s biggest flooring event is back in Harrogate from the 21st - 23rd September 2025 and you’re invited. From retailers and contractors to designers and distributors, The Flooring Show brings the entire industry together for three packed days of inspiration, innovation, and networking. And best of all? It’s completely free to attend.

GRAB YOUR FREE TICKETS HERE: https://invt.io/1fxbk9pmhtp 

Stay in the loop:

Instagram: @theflooringshow

LinkedIn: The Flooring Show

Website: https://theflooringshow.com 

​This episode of The UK Flooring Podcast is powered by J2 Flooring

J2 Flooring is one of the brands everyone’s talking about ahead of The Flooring Show 2025.

If you’re coming to Harrogate, trust us… Hall B, Stand B26 is where you want to be.

Go see what the fuss is about…​ you can thank us later

Website: https://www.j2flooring.com/ 

We Are Recording Live At The Flooring Show

Come and find us on Stand Q112 and be part of the action. Across all three days we’ll be recording live, full-length sessions and mini conversations, with the voices shaping the future of flooring.

We’ve got a jam-packed schedule featuring 18 of the biggest brands, leaders, and professionals in the industry, catch the live recordings in person and soak up the atmosphere at the show.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on The UK Flooring Podcast, Tom sits down with Glen, owner of Coastal Carpets, to talk about juggling family life, running a flooring business, and his love for skateboarding. From the art of laying carpet to hitting the ramps, this episode brings flooring and lifestyle together in a way you won’t want to miss.

What’s Inside:

• Growing Coastal Carpets into a trusted family-run flooring business.
• 
  
• Glen’s unique balance between fatherhood, business ownership, and skateboarding.
• 
  
• Lessons learned from the trade and the skatepark.
• 
  
• Why passion and perseverance matter in both flooring and life.
• 
  

Guest Information:

Glen – Owner, Coastal Carpets

• Website: https://www.coastal-carpets.com

This Episode is Brought to You in Partnership with The Flooring Show

The UK’s biggest flooring event is back in Harrogate from the 21st - 23rd September 2025 and you’re invited. From retailers and contractors to designers and distributors, The Flooring Show brings the entire industry together for three packed days of inspiration, innovation, and networking. And best of all? It’s completely free to attend.

GRAB YOUR FREE TICKETS HERE: https://invt.io/1fxbk9pmhtp 

Stay in the loop:

Instagram: @theflooringshow

LinkedIn: The Flooring Show

Website: https://theflooringshow.com 

We Are Recording Live At The Flooring Show

Come and find us on Stand Q112 and be part of the action. Got a story to share, an insight to shout about, or something the industry needs to hear? Book your live podcast recording below and join in the conversations that are shaping the future of flooring.

• 45 minute full length sessions - https://calendly.com/d/csdb-nj3-wm4/the-uk-flooring-podcast-live-at-the-flooring-show
• 15 minute mini sessions - https://calendly.com/d/csxh-h6p-rb6/the-uk-flooring-podcast-live-mini-series

Where to Find Us:

• Website: https://theukflooringpodcast.co.uk/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theukflooringpodcast/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theukflooringpodcast

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this inspiring episode of The UK Flooring Podcast, Tom Cockerill sits down with the owner of Against the Grain Flooring Stuart Lawler to uncover the passion, precision, and persistence behind one of the UK’s most respected bespoke flooring businesses. From the first plank laid to the final polish, discover how dedication to detail and a love for the craft have built a reputation that truly stands out in the industry.

Whether you’re an installer, retailer, or someone dreaming of starting your own flooring business, this episode is packed with lessons on craftsmanship, customer service, and business growth.

What’s Inside:

• The journey from start-up to established flooring brand.
• 
  
• How Against the Grain approaches bespoke flooring projects for both domestic and commercial clients.
• 
  
• Lessons in managing client expectations and delivering exceptional results.
• 
  
• The tools, materials, and techniques that make their work stand out.
• 
  
• Tips for building a business based on quality and trust.

Guest Information: https://www.againstthegrainflooring.co.uk/

This Episode is Brought to You in Partnership with The Flooring Show

The UK’s biggest flooring event is back in Harrogate from the 21st - 23rd September 2025 and you’re invited. From retailers and contractors to designers and distributors, The Flooring Show brings the entire industry together for three packed days of inspiration, innovation, and networking. And best of all? It’s completely free to attend.

GRAB YOUR FREE TICKETS HERE: https://invt.io/1fxbk9pmhtp 

Stay in the loop:

Instagram: @theflooringshow

LinkedIn: The Flooring Show

Website: https://theflooringshow.com 

We Are Recording Live At The Flooring Show

Come and find us on Stand Q112 and be part of the action. Got a story to share, an insight to shout about, or something the industry needs to hear? Book your live podcast recording below and join in the conversations that are shaping the future of flooring.

• 45 minute full length sessions - https://calendly.com/d/csdb-nj3-wm4/the-uk-flooring-podcast-live-at-the-flooring-show
• 15 minute mini sessions - https://calendly.com/d/csxh-h6p-rb6/the-uk-flooring-podcast-live-mini-series

Where to Find Us:

• Website: https://theukflooringpodcast.co.uk/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theukflooringpodcast/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theukflooringpodcast

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does it take to organise the UK’s biggest and boldest flooring trade event? In this week’s episode, we go behind the scenes with Suzy from The Flooring Show. From unexpected customs dramas to sparkly bikini mishaps and bold new plans to grow the show, Suzy lifts the curtain on what really happens when you put the entire flooring industry under one roof. 🎤📍

What’s Inside:

• Why this year’s show promises to be the biggest and most diverse yet
• 
  
• Suzy’s journey from fashion stylist to flooring show director (via spreadsheets and gaffes!)
• 
  
• New exhibitors to watch, from Kährs and Kährs Cork to a wave of tech brands like Roomvo, Computers for Flooring, Masterpiece, and more
• 
  
• How to get the most out of the show, especially if you’re a retailer or contractor coming solo
• 
  
• The unforgettable story of bikinis, beer, and a very awkward intervention
• 
  

Memorable Quote:

"You can’t build relationships from behind your desk. At Harrogate, everything you need, from innovation to advice, is under one roof."

This Episode is Brought to You in Partnership with The Flooring Show

The UK’s biggest flooring event is back in Harrogate from the 21st - 23rd September 2025 and you’re invited. From retailers and contractors to designers and distributors, The Flooring Show brings the entire industry together for three packed days of inspiration, innovation, and networking. And best of all? It’s completely free to attend.

GRAB YOUR FREE TICKETS HERE: https://invt.io/1fxbk9pmhtp

Stay in the loop:

Instagram: @theflooringshow

LinkedIn: The Flooring Show

Website: https://theflooringshow.com 

We Are Recording Live At The Flooring Show

Come and find us on Stand Q112 and be part of the action. Got a story to share, an insight to shout about, or something the industry needs to hear? Book your live podcast recording below and join in the conversations that are shaping the future of flooring.

• 45 minute full length sessions - https://calendly.com/d/csdb-nj3-wm4/the-uk-flooring-podcast-live-at-the-flooring-show
• 15 minute mini sessions - https://calendly.com/d/csxh-h6p-rb6/the-uk-flooring-podcast-live-mini-series

Where to Find Us:

• Website: https://theukflooringpodcast.co.uk/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theukflooringpodcast/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theukflooringpodcast

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does it take to run one of Ireland’s most trusted hardwood flooring businesses? In this week’s episode, Sarah speaks with Siobhan Smyth, co-founder of Floorstore Direct, about her path from hospitality to hardwood and how she and her team built a brand rooted in quality, trust, and relentless education. 

What’s Inside:

• Siobhan’s journey from working with showjumpers and running a pub to launching a flooring company
• How she developed product knowledge, built trust with customers, and created a high-end showroom experience
• The power of aftercare: why Floorstore Direct offers lifelong maintenance and support
• Big lessons from 20 years in business, including weathering the 2008 recession and scaling through e-commerce
• Her mission is to bring more training and qualifications to the flooring industry

Memorable Quote:

"If you love hardwood floors, you need to go for hardwood floors. In ten years, you can sand and change the look but you’ll still have a floor that lasts a lifetime."

Guest Information:

Siobhan Smyth – Floorstore Direct

🔗 Website: https://floorstoredirect.ie/

🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/siobhan-smyth-marketing/ 

Produced By Cockerill & Co

• Reach out on 01325 952548 or email hello@cockerillandco.co.uk
• Website: https://www.cockerillandco.co.uk
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cockerillandco/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cockerillandco/

Where to Find Us:

• Website: https://theukflooringpodcast.co.uk/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theukflooringpodcast/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theukflooringpodcast

Become a Guest: Share your flooring story! DM us on Instagram, LinkedIn, or Facebook.

Interview Tom: Want to turn the tables on host Tom Cockerill? Comment “Interview Tom” on our socials or email us to grill him with these questions!

Subscribe: Never miss an episode—hit subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite platform.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens when a group of flooring pros swap trowels for trekking poles? They climb North Africa’s tallest mountain. This special episode captures the laughter, pain, inspiration, and lessons from the summit of Mount Toubkal. 🎙️⛰️

What’s Inside:

• Why they decided to take on this gruelling challenge together
• 
  
• The emotional highs (and oxygen-deprived lows) from a 2:30am start to a 4167m summit
• 
  
• Reflections on mental strength, teamwork, and how pushing limits translates to flooring and business

Memorable Quote:

"When you're halfway up a mountain with no signal, gasping for air, and still cracking jokes—those are the people you want around in life and in business."

Mentions:

Mount Toubkal, Morocco

UK Flooring Retail and Installation Community

Mental toughness and mindset in business

Charity, connection, and personal growth

Episode Sponsored By:

Roomvo

Roomvo is transforming flooring retail—starting with how you showcase products—online and in-store—by letting shoppers browse a full, visual catalogue and instantly see products in their own space. And for manufacturers, the Roomvo Partner Program ensures your brand and products look perfect across every dealer site. It’s a win-win that drives confidence, trust, and sales. Book your demo here: https://get.roomvo.com/?utm_campaign=12577907-Sponsored%20Partnership%20-%2025.05.01%20-%20UK%20Flooring%20Podcast&utm_source=Uk-flooring-podcast&utm_medium=Podcast&utm_content=May-2025

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/get.roomvo/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/roomvo/

Website: https://get.roomvo.com 

• Become a Guest: Share your flooring story! DM us on Instagram, LinkedIn, or Facebook.
• Interview Tom: Want to turn the tables on host Tom Cockerill? Comment “Interview Tom” on our socials or email us to grill him with these questions!
• Subscribe: Never miss an episode—hit subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite platform.

Where to Find Us:

• Website: https://theukflooringpodcast.co.uk/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theukflooringpodcast/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theukflooringpodcast

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Damian Harvey of Addmaster joins the UK Flooring Podcast to reveal how invisible silver-ion technology is revolutionising hygiene in healthcare, food production, automotive and even space travel. This isn’t just science fiction—it’s the future of flooring.

What’s Inside:

• How Addmaster’s silver-ion antimicrobial additives work and why they’re critical in healthcare, food, and tech industries
• 
  
• Why the floor is often the most overlooked source of microbial contamination and how to fix that
• 
  
• Innovations in scent-enabled plastics, smart flooring, and passive hygiene systems
• 
  
• Insights into how Addmaster’s tech helps reduce harsh chemical use and improve sustainability
• 
  
• Fascinating stories from cruise ship outbreaks to NASA-grade flooring solutions

Memorable Quote:

“Floors are the forgotten frontline. Our antimicrobial tech catches bacteria at the source—where it actually lands.”

Guest Information: Damian Harvey

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/damian-harvey-666077112

Website: https://www.addmaster.co.uk/ 

Sponsor Shoutout:

Roomvo:

Roomvo is transforming flooring retail—starting with how you showcase products—online and in-store—by letting shoppers browse a full, visual catalogue and instantly see products in their own space. And for manufacturers, the Roomvo Partner Program ensures your brand and products look perfect across every dealer site. It’s a win-win that drives confidence, trust, and sales. Book your demo here: https://get.roomvo.com/?utm_campaign=12577907-Sponsored%20Partnership%20-%2025.05.01%20-%20UK%20Flooring%20Podcast&utm_source=Uk-flooring-podcast&utm_medium=Podcast&utm_content=May-2025

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/get.roomvo/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/roomvo/

Website: https://get.roomvo.com 

• Become a Guest: Share your flooring story! DM us on Instagram, LinkedIn, or Facebook.
• Interview Tom: Want to turn the tables on host Tom Cockerill? Comment “Interview Tom” on our socials or email us to grill him with these questions!
• Subscribe: Never miss an episode—hit subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite platform.

Where to Find Us:

• Website: https://theukflooringpodcast.co.uk/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theukflooringpodcast/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theukflooringpodcast

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Alex Page of Tricas Flooring joins the UK Flooring Podcast to share how a family-run ethos, prioritising fitters, and learning from the past helped turn his career and life around.

What’s Inside:

• Alex’s flooring journey: From apprentice sweeping floors to running a thriving commercial operation
• 
  
• The importance of communication, second chances, and investing in mental wellbeing
• 
  
• Why proper floor prep knowledge is still one of the industry’s most underrated skills
• 
  
• Tricas Flooring’s rebrand and plans for the future
• 
  
• The power of saying “no” to bad contracts—even when the money looks good

Memorable Quote:

“Always keep the people that feed you happy—that’s the key. Fitters first, always.”

Guest Information:

Alex Page – Tricas Flooring

🔗 Website: https://www.tricasflooring.co.uk

🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexander-page-0236851a1

Sponsor Shoutout:

Roomvo:

Roomvo is transforming flooring retail—starting with how you showcase products—online and in-store—by letting shoppers browse a full, visual catalogue and instantly see products in their own space. And for manufacturers, the Roomvo Partner Program ensures your brand and products look perfect across every dealer site. It’s a win-win that drives confidence, trust, and sales. Book your demo here: https://get.roomvo.com/?utm_campaign=12577907-Sponsored%20Partnership%20-%2025.05.01%20-%20UK%20Flooring%20Podcast&utm_source=Uk-flooring-podcast&utm_medium=Podcast&utm_content=May-2025

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/get.roomvo/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/roomvo/

Website: https://get.roomvo.com 

• Become a Guest: Share your flooring story! DM us on Instagram, LinkedIn, or Facebook.
• Interview Tom: Want to turn the tables on host Tom Cockerill? Comment “Interview Tom” on our socials or email us to grill him with these questions!
• Subscribe: Never miss an episode—hit subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite platform.

Where to Find Us:

• Website: https://theukflooringpodcast.co.uk/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theukflooringpodcast/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theukflooringpodcast

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tom and Sarah get raw and real about the chaos of life, leadership, and running a business when everything goes sideways. From hospital stays to rescheduling flagship events, here’s how to keep calm and carry on when the unthinkable happens.

What’s Inside:

• The hospital scare that shook the Cockerills and what it taught them about contingency planning
• When and how to pivot: Rescheduling Floor Freedom and navigating leadership when plans fall apart
• What real community and support looks like when you're truly under pressure
• Speed of action: Why doing the hard things fast makes all the difference
• Alliance Program insights: leadership, team dynamics, growth strategies, and prioritising what matters

Memorable Quote:

"Everyone has the same amount of time. It’s what you prioritise your time with." – Tom Cockerill

Sponsor Shoutout: 

Experience InstallerFLOORING at InstallerSHOW 2025!

Taking place at the NEC, Birmingham on 24-26 June, InstallerFLOORING will feature the latest tools, systems and materials from top exhibitors. There will also be the opportunity to watch live demos from FITA, watch NICF’s Fitter of the Year semi-finals, get hands on with the latest tools and tech, and be in with the chance of winning £10,000! You won’t want to miss out. Register for your FREE ticket here: https://forms.reg.buzz/installer-2025-visitor/flooringpodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/installershow/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/installershow

Website: https://www.installershow.com/

Roomvo:

Roomvo is transforming flooring retail—starting with how you showcase products—online and in-store—by letting shoppers browse a full, visual catalogue and instantly see products in their own space. And for manufacturers, the Roomvo Partner Program ensures your brand and products look perfect across every dealer site. It’s a win-win that drives confidence, trust, and sales. Book your demo here: https://get.roomvo.com/?utm_campaign=12577907-Sponsored%20Partnership%20-%2025.05.01%20-%20UK%20Flooring%20Podcast&utm_source=Uk-flooring-podcast&utm_medium=Podcast&utm_content=May-2025

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/get.roomvo/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/roomvo/

Website: https://get.roomvo.com 

• Become a Guest: Share your flooring story! DM us on Instagram, LinkedIn, or Facebook.
• Interview Tom: Want to turn the tables on host Tom Cockerill? Comment “Interview Tom” on our socials or email us to grill him with these questions!
• Subscribe: Never miss an episode—hit subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite platform.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.