Reflecting on 2025: The Ups, Downs, and What’s Next
As 2025 draws to a close, I’ve been reflecting on what’s been a bit of a rollercoaster year - both for us and the wider industry. At our annual team end of year meeting last year I told the team I believed that we were in for a tough year of trading in 2025 and in times like these it's the companies who look after their customers, who go above and beyond that thrive.
This year has seen some well-known names, such as Adam Carpets close their doors, with Carpetright at the end of last year and other well known interior brands like Fired Earth going bust, it's clear just how challenging the market has been. On top of that, rising costs like National Insurance and minimum wage have added extra pressure to most retail and manufacturing businesses. In terms of trade it’s truly been a year of four quarters for us: the first was great, the second were tough, the third brought some improvement, and the fourth has ended on a much brighter note. Despite these pressures, I’m proud of how our shops have continued to stand strong, focusing on excellent service, investing in staff training, and making practical decisions to keep moving forward, we were on the front foot through-out!
Amid these challenges, there have been plenty of positives to celebrate. Sponsoring Exeter Chiefs player Ben Coen through Buckfast Carpets has been a highlight - it’s been fantastic to support local sport and the community (and great to see him scoring points in Europe this weekend). We’ve also continued to invest in marketing and showcase our showrooms, helping us reach new customers and strengthen our presence across the South West.
It’s also been a year of exciting developments across our showrooms. Heather has returned to the team at our Austins Department Store showroom, keeping things running smoothly while our shop manager Lucy - mine and Joanna’s daughter - welcomed our delightful granddaughter Lola this summer, who has brought a huge amount of joy to our family. We’ve also welcomed Lisa to our Ottery Flooring team, and both Heather and Lisa have settled in brilliantly.
Staff training remains a priority. This year, we’ve sent our fitters and showroom teams on factory visits, particularly with Roger Oates, to hone their skills in fitting flatweave runners - a style that has become increasingly popular across all our showrooms. You can see some of the stunning flatweave installations we’ve completed this year on our social media pages for a little inspiration!
To give customers even more choice and flexibility, we’ve introduced new stands this year, including Westex and Karndean, which have proved very popular. These additions make it even easier for our teams to guide customers to the perfect flooring for their homes.
On the design front, the shows we attended at Harrogate and Earl’s Court this year highlighted some clear trends for 2026. Earthy tones, dusky neutrals, stony greys, and warm beiges are all making a statement, and flooring is increasingly becoming the feature of a room rather than just the backdrop. Feature floors are in, and we’re excited to help our customers bring these ideas to life in their homes.
Looking ahead to 2026, I’m optimistic. We’re exploring the possibility of bringing another showroom into the fold, an exciting prospect that reflects our ongoing growth. Keep an eye on our Ottery Flooring showroom too - there’s some news on the horizon that I’m looking forward to sharing next year.
Finally, I want to reiterate what’s at the heart of everything we do: family-run business values, a commitment to the local community, and outstanding customer care. Our teams across the South West continue to deliver exceptional service, and I couldn’t be prouder of them.
2025 has had its ups and downs, and I am convinced 2026 will be equally testing but the positives far outweigh the challenges. I’m looking forward to 2026 with confidence, excitement, and a continued commitment to helping our customers find the perfect flooring for their homes and businesses.
Here’s to a great year ahead!
— Steve