NICF’s open day is to return, after the success of the 2025 event, with visitors surged to get involved.
‘2025’s saw several patron members offering demonstrations on the proper application of their products. The event also provided an opportunity to engage with the technical teams and address any flooring issues participants had experienced. The event will differ a little from last time with the focus being more on participation as opposed to just watching,’ says Jason Draper, NICF president.
‘Demonstrations will be carried out by those who are masters in their field and will include all aspects of flooring, then there will be the chance for those of you that want to get hands on a with any of the tasks, our aim is for everything to be interactive.
‘I will be demonstrating stair runner installation, including the process of making and tapping, and Dan Jones, vice-president will be demonstrating the evermore popular binding tapes to produce rugs and stair runners which is proving to be a very well-liked service to offer customers.’
‘The master fitter carpet bay will be fitted out live on the day with an opportunity for those who have considered upgrading to this top-level category to ask questions and see how it is done. This offers a rare insight into what is expected and is a must for anyone considering upgrading to Master Fitter status in future.’
Sub-floor preparation demonstrations will also take place throughout the day, and there will also be a tool demo area where some of the latest tools will be available for visitors to try.
‘We are delighted to be welcoming the following companies, some of whom are NICF Patron Member or Fitter of the Year Sponsors: F Ball representatives will chat about their products and answer questions; Floormart’s Kieran Howard will discuss tools; KC CP will supply its popular Forest Impressions LVT for demonstrations, so visitors can experience how easy it is to cut and fit, with Elliot Gunn on hand to answer technical questions and provide samples.
Mapei UK’s Neal Perryman will be carrying out demos answering questions; MyScribe’s Sam Prosser will demonstrate the tool and Penthouse Carpets’s Simon Beeby will answer any questions about the manufacturing of its carpets.
‘Ulster Carpets’ Andrew Gicquel and Tony Wilkes will be bringing sample books for you to view and will be able to answer any questions about the manufacturing of their carpets.
‘As well as all that some NICF council members will be on hand to advise you regarding the benefits of membership or how to get the most from your membership or maybe you just want to talk flooring, we can do that too. Maybe you are thinking about entering future fitter of the year competitions and would like to know more details about that, we can advise on that and FITA’s training courses. Complimentary refreshments will be available throughout the day.’
The open day takes place on 24 April at the FITA Training Centre in Loughborough, from 10am-3pm and is open to NICF members and non-members. Pre-registration is required (to assist with catering arrangements).
