The CFJ Awards, hosted at the prestigious Dallas Burston Polo Club in Warwickshire on Friday 6 September, turned out to be an exceptional event. With the day guided by renowned stand-up comedian, Hal Cruttenden, the day celebrated the best in the contract flooring industry.

Attendees were treated to a day of laughter, recognition, and celebration, making this year’s awards one of the most memorable yet. The event not only highlighted the outstanding achievements within the sector but also brought together industry leaders, creating an unforgettable experience for all involved.

The spotlight of the day shone brightly on Flooring Matters, whose remarkable achievements made them the undisputed star of the CFJ Awards. Partnering with industry players such as Altro, IVC Commercial, Genesis Global Systems, Tremco, and TLC by Mercado, Flooring Matters claimed the prestigious award for Flooring in Bars & Restaurants for their exceptional work at Viva Bar Torquay.

Their success didn’t stop there – they went on to secure the coveted Installation of the Year Award, solidifying their status as leaders in the field. To cap off their triumphant day, they also took home the Sustainability Initiative of the Year Award, a testament to their commitment to innovation and environmental responsibility.

Runners-up were Vebro Polymers with Advanced Traditional Screeding (ATS) and Junckers at the Scottish National Gallery in Flooring In Visitor Attractions; MacGregor Flooring Company with Brintons Carpet, Altro, Bolon UK, Gradus, F Ball and Co, Mapei UK, Quantum Flooring Accessories, Jeden, TradeChoice Carpet & Flooring, Stairrods UK, Sasgo and Protec International at W Edinburgh in Flooring in Hotels; Westcotes Flooring Company with Forbo Flooring Systems, Quantum Flooring Accessories, Tremco and Protec International Ltd at HMP Fosse Way in Flooring In Community Venues and Public Spaces; and Shire Flooring with Forbo Flooring Systems, Interface, Polyflor and Quantum Flooring Accessories at Project Triathlon, London Gateway, in Flooring in Industrial areas.

The day celebrated a host of distinguished winners who have left an impact on the flooring industry. Among them was Shaun Wadsworth, CFA Training Manager, whose dedication to advancing industry training earned him the coveted Outstanding Achievement of the Year award. His contributions have shaped the future of the trade, setting new standards for excellence.

In a heartfelt moment, Robert ‘Bobby’ Pike of Market Place Flooring was honoured as he steps into a well-deserved retirement at the age of 70, after decades of service. His decision to finally hang up his kneepads marks the end of an era, and his legacy will undoubtedly inspire his colleagues.

Also recognised were the insightful commentary of Richard Aylen of Junckers, who was awarded CFJ’s Columnist of the Year. His thought-provoking pieces have resonated with readers, making him a standout voice in CFJ. These remarkable individuals have each, in their own way, contributed to the flooring sector.

‘We’re absolutely thrilled with the success of the awards, which continue to grow in stature and influence each year,’ said John Heath, ceo of Kick-Start Publishing. ‘When we transitioned from our previous awards framework to this new, innovative format, we had high hopes that it would resonate with the industry. However, the response has been beyond our wildest expectations. The support and enthusiasm from the industry confirm we’re on the right track, and it inspires us to continue raising the bar for excellence. It’s incredibly gratifying to see how much the awards have become a beloved and integral part of the flooring community.’

‘This event is for the industry and is made possible by the industry’s enthusiastic involvement and support,’ said Stuart Bourne, MD of Kick-Start Publishing. ‘This was our biggest event yet and going forward the sky is the limit!’