Torrid times for us all, but we must be ready for recovery
By Peter Vann, Director of Ceramique Internationale
As 2020 dawned I don’t think any of us could have envisaged what was awaiting us. COVID-19 has changed everything for every business, industry and individual.
Like every sector, the tiling industry ground to a halt in mid-March. Initially our suppliers in Italy, Spain and beyond advised they were still producing, albeit with slight delays as they were splitting workforces into shift patterns, but deliveries were still getting through. However once the lockdown hit, everything stopped.
As a nation, and as an industry, we will come through it and when we do, we need to be ready to hit the ground running. We are continuing to take and place orders and provide advice and recommendations to both commercial and domestic customers.
Let’s be honest – most people will be so sick of the sight of their own homes when this is over, they will probably be very keen to embark on some serious renovation and redecoration!
There’s a current buzz about the industrial interiors look. Although as a trend it’s been around since the ‘70s, the innovations in digital printing mean tile manufacturers can create hyper-realistic replications of raw, rustic materials –brick, concrete, metals and wood – to capture the industrial effect with all the added benefits of porcelain – no sealing requirements or likelihood of staining, chips or scratches.
Anyone looking to add luxury and drama to their home after months of staring at the same walls should strongly consider marble.
Natural marble is notoriously difficult to work with and maintain, making modern-day porcelain replications much more suitable for both domestic and commercial environments. The plethora of marble-effect tiles being produced is constantly evolving, enabling customers to recreate any marble look – from crisp, pure white Thassos to dramatic Orobico black and gold, or even vibrant greens and blues.
Right now, the message of stay home, save lives is the only one that matters. In the coming months that message will be one of recovery, so let’s make sure we’re ready.