CRAIGAVON-headquartered Ulster Carpets has completed the acquisition of Alternative Flooring based in Hampshire for an undisclosed sum.
An iconic independent British brand, Alternative Flooring is an ethically conscious designer and supplier of high-quality flooring with a quirky twist.
It will now join the range of complementary flooring companies within the successful Ulster Carpets Group.
This year marks the 85th anniversary of Ulster Carpets being founded by George Walter Wilson.
Still owned by the founder’s family, it has grown to become the premier supplier of Axminster and Wilton carpets to the residential, hospitality, marine and casino sectors globally, with offices in London, Paris, and across the US.
Last year Ulster Carpets, which has a staff of more than 700 people, was granted a Royal Warrant by the late Queen Elizabeth II.
In addition to the core business, te company (www.ulstercarpets.com) incorporates carpet manufacturers Ulster North East; technical textile machinery manufacturer Griffith Textile Machines; wool processing and dyeing company Ulster Yarns; fully sustainable underlay manufacturer Axfelt; specialist commercial carpet manufacturer Danfloor; luxury interiors brand Roger Oates Design; and sustainable furniture and materials producer Solidwool.
The acquisition further underlines Ulster Carpets’ belief in high quality, design-led, customer-focused UK businesses.
The company's strategic development director David Acheson said: “We believe Ulster Carpets Group is a fitting home for Alternative Flooring in terms of culture, outlook and ambition.
“Alternative will remain an independent, autonomous brand within the Ulster Carpets Group, but with the added expertise and resources to strengthen its capability, service, and product range.
“While this acquisition does not create any new jobs at Ulster’s Portadown HQ, it underpins our ambition to further establish ourselves as the premium supplier and brand at the top end of the flooring market in the UK and Ireland.”
Founded more than 25 years ago Alternative Flooring’s products are ethically sourced, and its Make Me A Rug programme allows any design to be turned into a rug that is hand finished to an exceptional standard at its Hampshire base.
Its retiring chairman Chris Brammall said: “Securing a bright future for the Alternative brand, together with its employees, customers and key suppliers, was a major factor in deciding the most suitable home for its next phase of development, and, in our opinion, this acquisition gives Alternative the best opportunity of reaching its considerable potential.’’
