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 COMPANY PROFILE 

DAVID STRYDOM
The challenge that changed everything

How business turmoil during Covid-19 taught the founder of 360 Degree Flooring
to trust his instincts while balancing risk and opportunity

AN Windsor says he’s built a company that combines skill, favourite projects often involve LVT, particularly Amtico and
experience and a commitment to delivering high-quality Karndean, where precision and templates are key. ‘It takes skill
Icommercial flooring projects across the UK. to fit correctly, and I enjoy that part of the work,’ he explains.
Based in Dumfries with a unit in Glasgow, 360 Degree Flooring Over the years, Ian and his team have taken on projects across
specialises in LVT, safety flooring, staircases, carpets, and wall the UK, from London to the Shetland Isles, and continue to
coverings such as Whiterock. The company focuses almost travel widely for clients. Care homes remain a core part of the
exclusively on commercial projects, including care homes, business, alongside student accommodation, local authorities,
student accommodation, local councils, NHS facilities, and and NHS facilities. The company also occasionally works with
universities. contractors and larger national clients, maintaining flexibility
The business has been operating for 11 years. Ian, now while keeping a strong commercial focus.
41, began in the flooring industry at 16 as a domestic carpet Like any business, Ian has encountered challenges. One
fitter after persistently approaching companies looking for notable experience came during Covid-19 when 360 Degree
apprenticeship opportunities. Flooring navigated the complexities of furlough and essential
‘I just kept harping on, asking if they were looking for an worker status.
apprentice,’ he recalls. From there, he gained experience in A project at Chelsea Creek in London required flooring in
commercial flooring, a temporary site huts, and Ian decided to take his team off
very different environment furlough to complete the
from domestic work, work. Despite previous
which sharpened his eye delays with the client and
for detail and precision. a sense of caution, he
That combination of trusted his team and went
domestic and commercial ahead.
training gave him a strong The client ultimately
foundation for running his went out of business,
own business. resulting in a financial
Ian launched 360 setback of about £30,000.
Degree Flooring in his Ian reflects positively on
early thirties. He chose the experience: ‘It wasn’t
the name deliberately to ideal, but it taught me the
reflect a company that importance of trusting my
could cover all angles and instincts while balancing
offer a complete service, ©Billy McRorie Wikipedia risk and opportunity. Every
independent of his own challenge is a chance to
identity. 360 Degree Flooring is based in Dumfries (pictured) with a unit in Glasgow learn and grow.’
‘I wanted it to be a company that could grow with or without Onsite conditions are another consideration, requiring careful
me, something that could eventually involve my kids or even be planning and problem-solving. Ian emphasises the importance
sold one day,’ he explains. His philosophy has always been to of preparation and collaboration with other trades to ensure
maintain a hands-on approach while keeping the team tight- projects run smoothly. He also keeps pace with trends, noting
knit, ensuring quality is never compromised. that while domestic LVT remains strong, commercial projects
The company currently employs eight core fitters, supported such as care homes often prioritise safety flooring, durability,
by trusted subcontractors when required. Ian values building and suitability for heavy use.
a team he can rely on, particularly in an industry where skilled Ian’s commitment to his team extends beyond training and
and qualified installers are hard to find. ‘Training and experience technical skill. He strives to provide opportunities for growth,
are key,’ he says. ‘I’ve had to train nearly all my guys myself. It mentorship and responsibility. ‘It’s not just about laying floors;
takes time and patience, but it pays off in quality work and loyal, it’s about developing people, creating a strong, motivated team,
capable staff.’ and maintaining standards consistently across projects.’ This
He acknowledges that recruiting is a challenge across the philosophy allows 360 Degree Flooring to manage projects
sector, especially for leadership roles, but focuses on developing efficiently while keeping client satisfaction high.
talent from within to ensure continuity and consistency. Despite the challenges of recruitment, fluctuating demand
Ian is passionate about the hands-on aspect of flooring. and onsite complications, Ian continues to focus on delivering
‘Nothing beats seeing the finished product,’ he says. ‘You might quality. He has no ambition to scale the business too quickly,
be doing the last part of a building, but when you walk out preferring controlled growth that ensures every project is
and see it all completed properly, it’s incredibly satisfying.’ His completed to a high standard. 

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