Best of British: At the heart of business

Graham Marshall, Abingdon Flooring sales director, national accounts and contracts division, on wishes for a government-led advertising and information drive

What do you see as the main advantages of being a UK manufacturer?

Being a UK manufacturer puts us at a definite advantage when it comes to our customers. We’re closer to understanding their needs and we’re also more able to react quickly to changes. Heavy investment in both manufacturing and logistics means that we are also able to offer high quality ranges, in many cases delivered the next day.

What efforts do you take to promote these advantages to UK retailers?

We believe strongly in what ‘Made in Britain’ represents to consumers and promote this throughout our POS and other marketing assets. It’s at the heart of our business and something we’re rightly proud of.

Do you think UK retailers understand sufficiently the advantages of sourcing from UK manufacturers?

There are many factors that go into the decision-making process for consumers, but ‘Made in Britain’ is certainly something our retailers use. The reassurance and confidence that come with a product that’s made in the UK and that has gone through rigorous quality control should not be underestimated. Consumers know they are more likely to receive a product they’re pleased with and that the support and back-up are there if they need help.

Do retailers make enough of the fact to their customers that they are selling UK-made products?

For the retailer that appreciates the benefits of buying British – certainly so. We hope that the prominence of ‘Made in Britain’ on our branding helps in this and that it directs consumers to a wide range of carpets with something to offer everyone, if buying British is a key part of their decision.

What would you like to see the UK government do to help UK manufacturing?

A government-led advertising and information drive to get consumers thinking about buying British would be immensely helpful to all manufacturers, not just those making carpets. It would help to put British products in the public consciousness and help consumers to understand just what they will gain from choosing to invest in UK-made goods.

Do you have overseas markets, and if so how has this changed since Brexit?

Our only overseas market is the Republic of Ireland, and trading has certainly become more complex since Brexit. However, the country represents an important customer base that we rightly value and support.

Abingdon23

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