Page 10 - CFJ_Dec25

LATEST NEWS

New data reveals UK’s hard flooring divide

EW analysis of consumer search
Ndata, conducted by UK Flooring
Direct, highlights the divide in the UK
flooring market, with hard flooring options
becoming an increasingly popular choice
with modern homeowners.
Tiles and laminate are emerging as the
UK’s most popular styles, while vinyl and
wood continue to play important lifestyle-
driven roles.
Insights from Google Trends and
household spending data show tile
flooring remains one of the UK’s most
popular hard flooring types, especially
in southern commuter towns including
Epsom, Bromley and Beckenham. Tiles
had an average search score of 59 when
comparing data from the past 10 years.
Laminate flooring is the second most Hard flooring options becoming
popular hard flooring option, with strength an increasingly popular choice
in northern cities such as Sunderland, fit with modern living. Meanwhile, wood hard flooring is the future. With tiles and
Gateshead and Jarrow and an average
search score of 56. Vinyl and wood remain flooring continues to appeal to those laminate leading the way, and vinyl and
wood providing versatile and aspirational
making an aspirational investment in
important options across the UK, with timeless, natural beauty.’ choices, UK Flooring Direct says the
average search scores of 44 and 26, While carpet still accounts for much of market is more diverse and exciting than
respectively. the UK’s overall household spend (87.5%), ever. 
Julie Dove, head of merchandising and the story beneath the surface suggests www.ukflooringdirect.co.uk
buying at UK Flooring Direct, said: ‘From
what we’re seeing in the data, there’s a
clear north-south split in flooring tastes. GLUES BROS by BOB LAWTON
Laminate is hugely popular across the
northeast, where younger, budget-
conscious homeowners are looking for a
stylish yet practical option.
By contrast, tiles are a favourite in the
south, where people tend to invest in
durable ‘finishes that stand the test of
time.
‘There’s also a generational shift
underway. Millennials and Gen Z
homeowners are driving demand for
laminate, tiles and vinyl because they’re
easy to clean, family and pet-friendly, and

10 CFJ December 2025 www.contractflooringjournal.co.uk
@CFJMagazine