CUSTOMER service is a state of mind, not a department. That is the principle which has driven Martin Couchie and his Style Flooring of York to success since he opened it in East Parade, Heworth, nearly three years ago.

That, coupled with Martin’s 28 years in the flooring industry and the customer assurance that Style Flooring is one of only two retailers in the city to be a member of the Carpet Foundation, has seen the venture not only attractive to the public, but also to local landlords and interior and kitchen designers.

It also motivates Martin as he enters the Small Business Of The Year and Retailer Of The Year categories in The Press Business Awards.

Of course prices have to be competitive for any business to thrive, which is why Style Flooring is part of a buying group of 135 independent retailers, which packs the buying power bunch of national retail chains.

The store has a free estimating and advice service, a full fitting and joinery service, and disposing of old floor coverings is usually free.

There is also the variety offered as stockists of Farrow & Ball paint and wallpapers to link in with your choice of carpet and expect expert advice.

His four staff regularly attend training courses and factory visits to improve their skills as well as attending the national carpet show and exhibitions to keep abreast of marketplace trends.