Have a news story for Floorscape? Get in touch with us to submit editor@floorscape.org.uk
Have a news story for Floorscape? Get in touch with us to submit editor@floorscape.org.uk
The Contract Flooring Association (CFA) is immensely proud to announce that the final three apprentices of the CFA Flooring Apprentice of the Year 2026 have been selected by the panel of judges. This annual award, which has become a cornerstone of the flooring industry calendar, provides a platform to highlight the remarkable achievements of apprentices and display the valuable skills they have gained through their training. For participating employers, it is a chance to demonstrate commitment to workforce development and investment in the next generation of skilled flooring installers, as well as of course by association their businesses.
Each year, we are impressed by the tremendous support for this initiative, from the quality of entries submitted by apprentices to the generous prizes donated by sponsors. This year was no different with over thirty entries received from all over the UK. The competition shines a spotlight on the industry’s future, underlining the huge benefits of high-quality training. It also emphasises the critical role apprenticeships play in developing skilled installers and is an essential tool for inspiring the next wave of floorlayers.
But who are the finalists?
Jack is based in Wolverhampton and is an apprentice with CFA member Baker Flooring Ltd. Jack attends off-the-job training at the FITA Training Centre in Loughborough with the support of Webs Training Ltd, a leading training provider from the East Midlands.
The judges felt the overall submission was strong, with clear and detailed explanations of each stage and positive feedback from his employer and tutor.
‘Making the final three is a surreal and incredibly proud moment for me. Being part of my family’s business makes this achievement even more meaningful, as it is not only a reflection of my own hard work, but also something that my family and grandparents are especially proud of. To be recognised as one of the final three is an amazing accomplishment, and the possibility of winning the award would be a rewarding recognition of all the time, dedication and effort I have invested throughout my journey. It would also be a celebration of everyone who has supported, encouraged and believed in me along the way, helping me reach the stage I am at today.’
Jay is an apprentice with longstanding CFA member MacGregor Flooring Company Ltd. Jay attends the CITB National Construction College in Inchinnan.
The judges were impressed by the quality of Jay’s case study, particularly the preparation and installation work evidenced, and they noted strong, positive feedback from his employer and tutor.
‘Being named as a finalist in the Flooring Apprentice of the Year is an incredible feeling and something I’m extremely proud of. To make the final three is a huge achievement and reflects the hard work, long hours and dedication I’ve put into developing my skills and learning the trade. Competing alongside such talented apprentices makes the experience even more rewarding. Winning the title would mean everything to me, not only as recognition for the effort and passion I bring to flooring every day, but also as a massive step forward for my career and confidence within the industry. It would be an honour to represent the next generation of flooring installers and show what can be achieved through commitment, hard work and a genuine love for the trade.’
Sam is no stranger to the competition after entering last year and finishing a commendable second. Sam entered the competition again this year and has once again reached the final three. Sam has recently completed his apprenticeship with FITA and Webs Training Ltd and continues to learn and develop with his employer Capital Flooring and Blinds.
The judges note that Sam displayed a very high standard of workmanship, reflecting care and precision and professionalism in his work. His case study highlighted effective communication skills and positive engagement with colleagues on site.
‘Winning Flooring Apprentice of the Year would mean a great deal to me as it would recognise the hard work, commitment and passion I’ve put into developing my skills throughout my apprenticeship. I’ve worked hard to improve my knowledge, fitting ability and customer service, always aiming to complete every job to a high standard. Receiving this award would make me proud of how far I’ve come, while also motivating me to continue progressing and building a successful career within the flooring industry.’
The competition is backed by superb support from our sponsors. The 1st place winner will receive a prize list valued at over £10,000, including cash donations, shopping vouchers and thousands of pounds worth of high-quality products, training days, tools and equipment. 2nd and 3rd place apprentices will also receive prizes courtesy of sponsors too.
The winning apprentice will have the honour of attending the CFJ Flooring Industry Awards in September 2026, officially receiving recognition for their achievement alongside all other illustrious winners in front of an audience made up of the industry’s top flooring contractors, manufacturers, and distributors.
Once again there will be a live announcement of the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place prize-winners at the InstallerSHOW 2026 exhibition on Wednesday 24th June, where the live reveal and prize giving will take place from the CFA and FITA stand, 4F37, at 1pm.
Floorscape aims to serve as a valuable resource for both
the contract flooring
industry and
associated parties including architects, designers, main
contractors, shopfitters, builders
and
clients and is fully supported by the Contract Flooring Association.
