What do you like about your role and the sectors you work in?
With the nature of my role, I must service all types of clients, both decision makers and influencers across the various contract markets. As I don’t have a particular sector that I need to focus solely on, this ensures there is a variety of needs to be addressed and that’s what gives my role a clear purpose, as well as satisfaction. I’m constantly being exposed to new ideas and trends throughout the interior flooring and finishing building products industry. This has helped me to assist my customers with finding solutions to their many questions when specifying, that can often arise depending on the client’s project requirements, budgets and timescales. This has in turn has helped me to build a strong foundation of valuable knowledge over the past few years.
What challenges are driving many businesses today in the markets you work in?
The Irish flooring market is always evolving with new themes (increased urbanisation, population growth, and foreign direct investment) and each sector has its own specific drivers. Whether it is an Industry, Education, Healthcare, Office, Student Accommodation, Retail or any other type of project, I am tasked with ensuring that, as a combined Gerflor and Gradus business, we are offering a complete solution, that meets the expectation of both the client and the contractor. Both groups of customers will have their own drivers as part of the design and build or refurbishment program. Trying to find a balance that will meet the needs of both these stakeholders can be a challenge within itself, but to ensure project success, I am pleased to say that a collaborative approach works for me and my network.
What are your favourite Gerflor and Gradus solutions and why?
The new Gerflor Taralay Impression HOP collection is a remarkable and impressive loose lay product, it has exceptional environmental credentials, is available in modern and contemporary finishes and has been extremely well received by Architects and Specifiers. Another game changer for me, are the DLW Linoleum collections, these ranges continue to be very popular in the local Education and Healthcare markets. With over 200 finishes to choose from and its Neocare™ surface protection for unrivalled levels of stain resistance, DLW is an ideal solution for many hardworking spaces.
The Gradus XT Stair Edging is another favourite of mine, anytime I am presenting this product to clients they are really impressed with the design and style of the XT range without it compromising on the safety element. With the new XT bronze and XT aluminium finishes; we have taken this range to the next level, and I am looking forward to presenting these to architects and specifiers alike.
What do you like doing in your spare time?
I am someone who likes to get active. I am currently coaching the local up and coming Girl’s football team and have recently taken up playing golf – mind you I am no Rory McIlroy! What I really enjoy is the outdoor life, from walking our dogs along the local beach, to sports down in Kerry and of course skiing in the wintertime. Of course, a Guinness afterwards is very much appreciated. Contact me now if you want to walk with me on the wild side too!
If you need specification advice, then contact Gareth today.
Email at gareth.murphy@gerflor.com
