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Boost to buy British
Website Editor • August 19, 2020
The Carpet Foundation says now is the time to buy British as the pandemic has created "a genuine resurgence in demand and enthusiasm for home-grown and made goods."
"As well as making a contribution to the economy, consumers now want to buy from firms that have a local history and story," says the Foundation. "What better time to rediscover all the brilliant companies who can furnish our interiors – and that, of course, includes carpet! "
Writing in their latest newsletter, the Foundation cites a survey published last month which showed that almost half of British manufacturers are planning to rely more on UK suppliers in future and bring back production into the UK.
"It isn’t going to be easy – higher costs here mean that remaining competitive will be a challenge but, while the mood music is with us, what an excellent time to promote those manufacturers who make a significant contribution to the economy, can talk about their craft and make contemporary, quality products," says the industry organisation.
The push comes alongside latest reports that carpet imports into the U.K. in the first half of 2020 are down by a third on the previous year after June saw an eighth consecutive year-on-year decline. Belgium has taken the biggest hit with its total (£63.8 million) down in the six months to June, more than half on the previous year.
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