It was with a slight feeling of dread that we began 2023 in flooring & interiors retail. The doom and gloom all around was aimed at making consumers so scared that they would not be able to afford the basics of like, that they would never consider spending anything on their homes. However, it turned out not to be the case, thank goodness. I think people just got to the point where they were fed up with worrying and decided to ‘ke sera’ it and get their new flooring/furniture/house or treat themselves to a holiday anyway.
So, it seems that, with a few exceptions, things are nowhere near as bad as we feared. And as we get nearer to the spring, there’s a certain upbeat zeitgeist in the air. People are looking forward to the King’s Coronation and planning some celebrations, people are looking forward to their holidays and people are looking to give their homes a ‘spring clean’, including we hope, sprucing up the décor.
You will have seen the fantastic competition open to all Independent retailers to ‘Crown the High Street in Wool’ by entering their window/in-store displays in celebration of the Coronation and featuring the benefits of wool carpet. If you haven’t already entered, it’s not too late – simply upload your pictures to any social media platform using the hashtag #lovewoolcarpets and boom – you’re in with a chance of winning a luxury spa break for two.
We are also looking forward to the Buying Groups’ Show on 10th & 11th May. Always a great show, this year is going to be extra special with all of the major suppliers attending, as well as the SMG Team who this year, will be downstairs in the Diamond Suite. Come in and see us for a coffee and a catch up on all things new at SMG. There will also be a little drinks reception in the main exhibition hall on the Wednesday afternoon – 4.30 – 6.00pm so don’t miss it! The competition winners will be announced then too so definitely worth staying for.
As always, this issue of SMG News is packed with all your favourite features as well as lots of news and topical comment.
