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/ 

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 

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 

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 

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 [email protected]
• 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.

What’s behind a flawless floor? Raised access systems, remote teams, and a fifth-wheel caravan. Ryan Ulmer reveals how Access Floors Distribution is shaking up commercial flooring with smart tech, a service-first strategy, and a people-powered approach.

What’s Inside:

• From Hereford to Newquay: How Access Floors Distribution operates fully remote and still delivers next-day to London
• Demystifying Raised Access Floors: Hollow floors, screed panels, gypsum systems & why finish dictates your spec
• Building a lean, scalable business: e-commerce moves, AI usage, and why “Don’t spin your wheels” is the best business advice

Guest Information:

Ryan Ulmer –Business Development Manager, Access Floors Distribution

🔗https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-ulmer-4b2b65236/

🌐https://www.accessfloorsdistribution.co.uk/

📺https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwlLxgF2IZVK-yUFoB3Oydg

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.

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