Tom and Sarah get raw and real about the chaos of life, leadership, and running a business when everything goes sideways. From hospital stays to rescheduling flagship events, here’s how to keep calm and carry on when the unthinkable happens. What’s Inside: The hospital scare that shook the Cockerills and what it taught them about contingency planning When and how to pivot: Rescheduling Floor Freedom and navigating leadership when plans fall apart What real community and support looks like when y...
Jun 26, 2025•48 min•Season 4Ep. 9
What’s behind a flawless floor? Raised access systems, remote teams, and a fifth-wheel caravan. Ryan Ulmer reveals how Access Floors Distribution is shaking up commercial flooring with smart tech, a service-first strategy, and a people-powered approach. What’s Inside: From Hereford to Newquay: How Access Floors Distribution operates fully remote and still delivers next-day to London Demystifying Raised Access Floors: Hollow floors, screed panels, gypsum systems & why finish dictates your spe...
Jun 19, 2025•48 min•Season 4Ep. 8
In this powerful episode, Tom Cockerill sits down with Martyn Cohen to talk career reinvention, running high-performing flooring teams, and how to scale a business without sacrificing your sanity. What’s Inside: o The common mistakes flooring retailers make with staff and growth—and how to fix them o Five people management tips every flooring business owner needs to hear o Why most businesses avoid asking for help o Martyn’s leap into consultancy and how he’s helping flooring companies level up ...
Jun 12, 2025•58 min•Season 4Ep. 7
Jason Draper joins the UK Flooring Podcast to talk NICF, the real cost of poor clients, mastering natural flooring, and why success isn’t about being busy—it’s about being intentional. What’s Inside: Jason’s journey from fitter to President of the National Institute of Carpet and Floorlayers (NICF) Why saying “no” is a superpower for any installer or retailer The truth about NICF accreditation, industry standards, and apprenticeships Natural flooring as an underrated, high-skill trade Honest ins...
Jun 05, 2025•53 min•Season 4Ep. 6
In this episode of NeBiznis, Rob chats with Tom Cockerill, founder of Cockrell and Co. and host of The UK Flooring Podcast. Tom shares his rollercoaster journey from building a successful flooring business to losing everything—house, cars, business—and then rising again to create a thriving consultancy that now supports flooring businesses across the UK. Follow us on Instagram, YouTube, X, Facebook and more! Chapters 00:00 – Intro & Meet Tom Cockrell 03:12 – Tom’s Business J...
Jun 03, 2025•37 min
Explore the commercial flooring world with Jon Rogers of Burmatex. From 1880s Yorkshire mills to today’s cutting-edge eco-manufacturing, this episode reveals the legacy, innovation, and real talk behind one of the UK’s most respected flooring brands. What’s Inside: • How Burmatex evolved from recycled clothing to pioneering commercial flooring solutions • The truth about sustainability in the flooring spec game—what architects and contractors really want • Why British-made still matters and what...
May 29, 2025•56 min•Season 4Ep. 5
When a sleepless baby meets a squeaky floor, a global business is born. Paul Lanzarotti shares how he turned one infuriating problem into a world-leading solution. This episode is essential listening for anyone in flooring—fitters, retailers, and innovators alike. What’s Inside: Paul’s origin story—from media exec to flooring fix pioneer How Floor-Fix Pro solves squeaks, wobbles, cracks & gaps without lifting a plank Why the UK resists repair solutions while Europe and the U.S. embrace them ...
May 22, 2025•1 hr 8 min•Season 4Ep. 4
This week, Tom is joined by Nathan Garnett, Business Development Director of the InstallerSHOW, to uncover what makes 2025’s event the biggest and boldest yet. From live house builds to celebrity appearances and exclusive networking spaces—InstallerSHOW is more than a trade event, it’s an experience. What’s Inside: o What’s new at InstallerSHOW 2025: Bigger halls, more brands, and exciting show zones o A Grand Designs-style live house build happening on the show floor o Celebrities, keynote spea...
May 15, 2025•36 min•Season 4Ep. 3
Get ready for an inspiring episode of the UK Flooring Podcast as we sit down with Emma Derham, the trailblazing talent behind Smartwood Flooring and Tiling. As a female floor sander and tiler with 17 years of experience, Emma is gearing up to take over her family’s business in Brighton. From battling old-school stereotypes to captaining her women’s football team, Emma shares her journey with grit, humour, and a passion for empowering women in the trades. Episode Highlights Big Transitions : Emma...
May 08, 2025•48 min•Season 4Ep. 2
Welcome to the electrifying kickoff of Season 4 of the UK Flooring Podcast! We’re diving in with none other than Sarah Cockerill, the powerhouse co-founder of Cockerill & Co, who brings raw honesty, resilience, and a fresh perspective to the flooring industry. In this episode, Sarah faces a gauntlet of brand-new questions designed to uncover the human side of business, from personal triumphs to industry challenges like menopause and upcoming regulations. Get ready for a rollercoaster of insi...
May 01, 2025•35 min•Season 4Ep. 1
Season 4 of the UK Flooring Podcast is coming soon! We're diving deeper into the world of flooring with fresh insights and inspiring stories. Want to share your expertise or journey? Get in touch now to be a guest on the show! Contact us at: •Website: https://theukflooringpodcast.co.uk/ •Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theukflooringpodcast/ •Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theukflooringpodcast •YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@cockerillco6141 Produced By: Cockerill & Co Reach out on...
Apr 25, 2025•3 min
Tom Land shares how he's taking the reins of a family flooring business, navigating sanding mishaps, setting boundaries with clients, and dreaming big with his eyes on high-end market expansion. What’s Inside: From teenage apprentice to business owner: Tom’s journey stepping into his dad’s 40-year flooring legacy Why setting clear boundaries and charging deposits can transform your business (and your sanity) School gyms, Devon hotels, and the nightmare job that nearly broke him—plus what it taug...
Apr 10, 2025•41 min•Season 3Ep. 12
In this jam-packed episode of the UK Flooring Podcast , we sit down with Rob Baines, a filmmaking veteran with nearly 20 years of experience and the creative force behind Rob-Cam Productions. Rob shares his expert insights on how flooring businesses—and any business—can harness the power of video in 2025 to stand out online, boost engagement, and stop the scroll on social media. From DIY tips using just your smartphone to the value of hiring a pro, Rob delivers 10 actionable video hacks tailored...
Mar 27, 2025•1 hr 5 min•Season 3Ep. 11
Join us on The UK Flooring Podcast as we dive into the fascinating 25-year journey of Chris Richardson-King, Technical Manager at Ege Carpets. From cutting carpets to hit the pub by 2pm to championing bespoke, sustainable flooring for Disney and cruise liners, Chris shares his evolution from installer to industry innovator. Discover how Ege Carpets is redefining the trade with injection-dyed designs, 97% recycled carpets, and a bold 2030 sustainability vision. Packed with insights on training, i...
Mar 13, 2025•1 hr 6 min•Season 3Ep. 10
In this episode of The UK Flooring Podcast, we sit down with Andy from Flooring Matters in Newton Abbot to uncover his remarkable transition from a hectic chef’s life to leading a thriving flooring business in the South West. From laying his first square metre to scaling a commercial and residential powerhouse, Andy shares actionable insights on training, diversification, and overcoming industry challenges—like the lack of local training centres. What’s Inside: From chefing in New Zealand to flo...
Mar 06, 2025•34 min•Season 3Ep. 9
Tom and Sarah sit down to share the 9 essential strategies to scale a flooring business to 7 figures. From mastering cash flow and pricing to hiring, marketing, and client experience, this episode is packed with actionable insights to grow smarter and faster! What’s Inside: Mastering cash flow – The #1 mistake flooring businesses make Pricing for profitability – Why your current rates may be killing growth Hiring & leadership – Building a team that actually moves the needle Marketing & l...
Feb 27, 2025•1 hr 4 min•Season 3Ep. 8
In just five years, Vebro Polymers has expanded into international markets, redefined commercial flooring solutions, and built a high-energy culture. Mark Verinder FCA and Jon Morris join host Tom Cockerill to discuss their rapid growth, innovative approach, and what’s next in the industry. What’s Inside: How Vebro Polymers scaled internationally in just five years The importance of speed, action, and people in business growth How marketing and branding have made resin flooring ‘sexy’ Insights i...
Feb 13, 2025•1 hr 11 min•Season 3Ep. 7
Michel van Slingerland, International Marketing Manager at FENTO KNEE PROTECTION, joins the UK Flooring Podcast to share how their ergonomic knee pads are transforming the lives of craftspeople worldwide. Learn how Fento’s innovations prevent knee and back pain while improving comfort and productivity. What’s Inside: [The Fento Origin Story] : From one craftsman’s struggle to a global brand. [Why Fento is Different] : The science behind ergonomic knee protection. [Global Expansion] : Insights in...
Feb 04, 2025•19 min•Season 3Ep. 6
In this episode, Mark Tilson, co-founder of Barefoot Flooring, shares how he turned around his business after attending Cockerill & Co’s two day business course - Flooring Freedom. Discover the strategies that increased profits, improved efficiency, and built long-term success. What’s Inside: How Mark implemented three key changes to boost revenue and reduce stress. Why personalised quotes and FAQs increased order value. Turning down unprofitable jobs to focus on high-value opportunities. Me...
Jan 30, 2025•56 min•Season 3Ep. 5
Dave Thompson shares his incredible journey from a troubled youth to a thriving business owner with multiple flooring shops and commercial contracts. Discover how his bold decisions and passion for helping others shaped his success. What’s Inside: Lessons learned from his grandfather and early career struggles. Running multiple shops and managing large commercial contracts. Unique initiatives to help troubled youths build careers in flooring. Memorable Quote: "Sometimes, when you’re at your limi...
Jan 23, 2025•41 min•Season 3Ep. 4
Pieter Buyck, Founder of Floorify, shares his journey from industry veteran to entrepreneur, introducing the world to Floorify's cutting-edge rigid click flooring. Discover their unique retail solutions, product innovations, and growth strategies for 2025. What’s Inside: The Birth of Floorify: How Pieter identified an "iPhone moment" in the flooring industry Rigid Click USP: The benefits of floating installation and Floorify’s top-tier product range. Innovative Retail Solutions: Floorify’s smart...
Jan 21, 2025•13 min•Season 2Ep. 3
Join Sarah as she chats with Amanda Ford, co-founder of The Financial Planning Club, about the transformative power of accountability, visualisation, and the role of community in achieving personal and professional goals. What’s Inside: Why sharing your goals with others can drive success. How the Cockerill & Co alliance community provides accountability and support for members. Exploring the benefits of using vision boards, manifestation, and having a clear "why" How to navigate setbacks an...
Jan 16, 2025•46 min•Season 3Ep. 2
Join Joe Sims, CEO of V4 Wood Flooring, as he shares his journey from humble beginnings to leading one of the market leading wood flooring companies. Discover insights into the flooring industry, customer experience, and exciting innovations coming in 2025. What’s Inside: From debt recovery to CEO of V4 Wood Flooring How V4 prioritises relationships and human connection Innovations in luxury wood flooring and streamlined customer experiences Memorable Quote: "Customer retention is so important—l...
Jan 09, 2025•40 min•Season 3Ep. 1
In the final episode of 2024, Tom and Sarah reflect on the year's successes and challenges, highlighting key lessons and insights for flooring industry professionals. They delve into client achievements, common pitfalls, and exciting plans for 2025, including new projects and services. Whats inside: Importance of Understanding Numbers Review of Client Successes and Failures Leadership and Team Efficiency Consistent Effort and Long-Term Success Personal Reflections and Achievements Memorable Quot...
Dec 12, 2024•41 min•Season 2Ep. 146
Discover how Chris Frost, Director of The Exact, is transforming the flooring industry with flexible, cost-effective project estimating services. Learn how outsourcing estimation can enhance accuracy, streamline processes, and improve client relationships. What’s Inside: [Chris Frost’s Flooring Journey] : A 50-year career and lessons learned. [The Exact’s Approach] : Leveraging outsourcing for precision and cost-effectiveness. [Challenges & Advice] : Insights for modern flooring contractors....
Dec 05, 2024•43 min•Season 2Ep. 145
Chris Payne, CEO of Headlam Group PLC, joins us to discuss the flooring industry’s biggest challenges and opportunities. From mobile services vs showrooms to mental health in tradespeople, this episode offers insights into the future of flooring and Headlam's approach. What’s Inside The evolution of customer service: mobile services vs traditional showrooms Supporting mental health in tradespeople and fostering a positive work environment How Headlam is simplifying operations to improve client e...
Nov 28, 2024•1 hr•Season 2Ep. 143
In this heartfelt episode, Adam Butler of Butler Carpets & Flooring shares his inspiring journey from family business roots to building a thriving flooring company. Adam opens up about the challenges, motivations, and lessons he’s learned along the way. What’s Inside Adam’s background in flooring and how he brought his family’s business to new heights Insights on balancing skill growth with business management and branding Tips for overcoming industry challenges and building a personal conne...
Nov 21, 2024•41 min•Season 2Ep. 142
I n this episode, we chat with UltraFloor’s Vicki Stiles and Mark Berry to discuss the essential role of selecting the right supply chain partner. Discover how communication, sustainability, and quality control make a significant difference in the flooring industry. What’s Inside The impact of communication in supply chain management How UltraFloor ensures product quality through rigorous testing and innovative processes Insights on sustainability practices and environmental initiatives in manuf...
Nov 14, 2024•41 min•Season 2Ep. 141
In this unique "Members Spotlight" episode, we feature two in-depth interviews that give listeners a comprehensive look into the flooring industry. Guest host Alex Derham from Smartwood Flooring interviews our regular host, Tom, for a deep dive into choosing the best flooring products and fostering strong supplier relationships. Later, Elaine Thomas of Living Floors joins us to discuss how her business has transformed over the last 25 years, adapting to changing customer needs and new technologi...
Nov 12, 2024•38 min•Season 2Ep. 140
In this episode, Alan Collins, Technical Site Support and Training Manager at UltraFloor breaks down common myths and best practices around underfloor heating. Learn what it takes to ensure a seamless underfloor heating installation from an industry expert. What’s Inside Key steps to successfully prepare and install flooring over underfloor heating systems Tips on proper subfloor preparation and common mistakes to avoid Essential advice on primers, smoothing compounds, and product compatibility ...
Nov 07, 2024•57 min•Season 2Ep. 139
