Carpetright faces uncertain future as Tapi is set to step in to save the brand

Carpetright, the well-known flooring retailer, is set to be rescued from financial collapse by its rival, Tapi Carpets & Floors. 

However, the proposed deal is likely to result in the closure of hundreds of Carpetright stores, putting numerous jobs at risk.

According to a recent report by the BBC, Tapi Carpets & Floors plans to acquire the Carpetright brand name, the company's intellectual property, two warehouses, and 54 of its stores. 

While this move may save the brand, it leaves the future of many of its employees in limbo.

Carpetright currently operates a store in Barnstaple at Roundswell Retail Park.

The potential closure of this store could have significant repercussions for both employees and local customers. 

The North Devon Gazette reached out to Tapi for further information regarding the future of the Barnstaple store and others like it, but Tapi responded: “I am afraid we are unable to advise.”

The uncertainty follows Carpetright’s recent filing of a notice of intention to appoint administrators, as reported by the BBC on July 12. 

Founded in 1988, Carpetright opened its first store in Canning Town, east London, and quickly expanded its footprint across the UK. 

It became a public company listed on the London Stock Exchange in June 1993, riding a wave of success for many years. 

However, it was delisted in 2020.

Over the years, Carpetright has diversified its product offerings, branching out from flooring to sell mattresses, curtains and blinds, garden furniture, and artificial grass.