This episode of The UK Flooring Podcast is a special National Flooring Awards 2026 edition, with Tom and Sarah pulling back the curtain on what is coming this year, why last year hit so hard, and why this one looks set to raise the bar again.
From the atmosphere and emotion of the 2025 event to the plans already in place for 2026, this episode is all about momentum. Bigger entertainment, a stronger VIP experience, a packed room full of the best in the industry, and an awards night built to celebrate flooring properly. If you were there last year, this will get you buzzing for what is next. If you were not, this is the episode that will make you want to be in the room.
Tom and Sarah also break down how nominations work, why entering properly matters, what the judges are really looking at, and why writing yourself off before you have even entered is a mistake. One of the strongest themes in the episode is simple: this is not just another industry event. It is a genuine celebration of the people, companies and work that make flooring what it is.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Why the National Flooring Awards 2025 created such a strong reaction, and what made the atmosphere so memorable.
What is changing for 2026, including more entertainment, a larger dance floor, a stronger VIP offering, and more time to make the event even better.
How nominations and ticketing work, including why shortlisted businesses will need to be in the room.
Why your entry needs proper effort, and how judges use your submission to make decisions.
How the judging process works, including the role of public voting and why the panel takes the process so seriously.
Why businesses across the industry should not talk themselves out of entering before they have even had a go.
A full run through of the award categories for 2026, and why there is real opportunity for businesses of all sizes to get involved.
Memorable Quote:
“You can’t package that up and sell that to somebody. You’ve literally got to experience it.”
Speaker Information
Tom Cockerill and Sarah Cockerill
Hosts, The UK Flooring Podcast / Founders of the National Flooring Awards
Where to Find The UK Flooring Podcast
Watch on YouTube
Listen on Spotify
Listen on Apple Podcasts
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