The hidden costs of national carpet chains

When looking for a new carpet, many are attracted to prominent national carpet chains such as SCS, CarpetRight and Tapi due to their extensive range of options and seemingly low prices. Consumers could be unaware of the hidden costs associated with shopping at these establishments. When carefully considering these additional costs, better deals can likely be found at smaller, independent carpet retailers.

Quality

One of the hidden expenses is associated with the quality of the carpets. Major chains do not manufacture their carpets; instead, they buy them from a supplier and then label them with their own branding. These identical carpets are also distributed to independent carpet shops which may offer them at a lower price compared to the major companies.

The brand labels of these carpets may suggest luxury, with names like Duchess or Champagne. These rebranded carpets are frequently offered at discounted rates, giving consumers the impression that they are getting a great deal when in reality, they are investing in a poor product.

If you pay a premium for a higher quality carpet from an independent retailer, this can ultimately be more cost-effective, as it will have a longer lifespan before needing replacement.

Free installation

Certain national carpet retailers claim they provide free installation services, but you must question the true nature of this offer. It is important to recognize that carpet installers do not offer their services without compensation, therefore their fees are likely included in the total cost of the carpet.

Free underlay

Carpets often need underlay, although some come with built-in underlay. Underlay not only prolongs the lifespan of the carpet, but certain types also offer insulation and noise reduction benefits. Major carpet retailers may provide complimentary underlay; however, it is likely to be lower quality. Opting for better grades of underlay will entail an additional cost.

Delivery

Many national chains use freelance carpet installers who may not deliver the carpet, while delivery fees may be extra. Most independent retailers employ their carpet fitters who will deliver and fit the carpet at the same time.

Personalised service

Major carpet retailers hire sales assistants who frequently earn a percentage-based compensation based on their weekly sales performance. This arrangement can result in a scenario where the sales representative prioritizes the monetary worth of a transaction over identifying the most suitable carpet to meet your specific needs. Consequently, you may ultimately incur unnecessary expenses by buying a better carpet than you need or can afford.

Smaller carpet shops have the advantage of providing a more customised and attentive service. Instead of being assisted by a pushy sales representative, you will often interact with the proprietor. These owners are keen on establishing a personal connection with customers, taking the necessary time to understand your preferences and budget constraints to recommend the most suitable carpeting options. In some cases, they may even offer to conduct an on-site visit to your residence or place of business to accurately measure the space and provide a cost estimate, a service that is often complimentary, whereas larger national retailers typically charge a fee for the same service.

In general, you can expect a more personalised service from an independent retailer.

Is the deal too good to be true?

Upon entering into the large showroom of a prominent national carpet retailer, you might find yourself captivated by the grand posters showcasing exceptional promotions, such as a fifty per cent reduction on all items or a special deal of purchasing one carpet and receiving another at half-price. It is not uncommon to discover a wide array of carpets at discounted rates ranging from twenty to sixty per cent off. Additionally, complimentary fitting services or free underlay may be offered with every carpet purchase.

Passionate sales representatives may tell you about the exceptional bargains they provide. However, you must consider whether these offers are truly as remarkable as they seem. In reality, all carpet companies must make a profit on every deal to sustain their business operations. The inclusion of hidden fees ensures that they can generate profits from every carpet transaction.

The Office of Fair Trading has criticised leading carpet retailers for misleading customers into thinking they are getting a bargain by artificially inflating the original price. Ethical independent retailers may have sales or offer discounts sometimes, but they don’t exaggerate the original price.

Home Style Carpets and Flooring is committed to transparency by providing quotes for flooring with no concealed costs involved. If you purchase the identical carpet from us as sold by a nationwide retailer, you might discover that you end up paying a lower price.