At UFS, we understand that a thorough assessment and preparation process is crucial to the long-term success of any flooring installation. The existing floor coverings in the M&S Wakefield foodhall had experienced issues due to the environmental challenges typical of retail spaces that involve refrigeration systems. The presence of moisture migration and wear from heavy traffic required a complete overhaul to restore the integrity of the subfloor and ensure the new flooring would perform optimally.

Our Solution:

• Removal of existing tiles: We carefully removed 800m² of damaged flooring, employing a ride-on floor stripper to expedite the process while maintaining a clean and controlled work environment.

• Subfloor assessment & preparation: We then diamond-ground the subfloor to remove any affected areas of the screed that had been compromised by long-term moisture exposure. This was followed by the application of Murexin subfloor materials, ensuring a stable and moisture-resistant foundation for the new flooring system.

• Integration of UFS 'Leaky Fridge' Specification: Designed specifically for retail spaces with refrigeration units, this specification mitigates moisture migration, preventing future subfloor damage.

The newly installed Tarkett green fleck tiles were selected for their superior durability and ability to withstand the heavy footfall and operational demands of a busy M&S foodhall. The tiles’ high-performance surface is resistant to wear, indentation, and impact, making it an ideal choice for retail environments.

• Exceptional resistance to foot traffic: The reinforced surface coating provides long-term abrasion and impact resistance, ensuring the floor remains in excellent condition even under constant foot traffic.

• Moisture resilience: The tiles are engineered to resist expansion and contraction, maintaining stability even in areas with fluctuating moisture levels.

In food retail environments, maintaining hygiene is paramount. The flooring system was specifically chosen for its ease of cleaning and hygiene benefits.

• Non-porous surface: The Tarkett tiles feature a sealed, non-porous surface, preventing the absorption of liquids and minimizing the risk of bacterial growth.

• Low-maintenance design: The easy-to-clean nature of the tiles supports M&S’s high hygiene standards, ensuring the store remains spotless with minimal downtime for maintenance.

M&S Wakefield operates in a high-traffic environment where safety is a priority. Our selection of Tarkett tiles with an enhanced gritted surface ensures that slip hazards are minimised, especially in areas prone to moisture exposure.

• Improved slip resistance: The gritted texture of the tiles exceeds EN 13845 slip resistance standards, offering superior traction and reducing slip risks.

• Seamless integration of safety features: The flooring system was designed to seamlessly integrate with the store’s layout, providing smooth transitions between zones and preventing trip hazards.

M&S’s aesthetic requirements are always a top priority, and we ensured that the newly installed flooring enhanced the store’s overall retail experience. The Tarkett green fleck tile was chosen to complement the existing design elements of the store, providing a cohesive and modern appearance that aligns with M&S’s brand values.

• Aesthetic cohesion: The green fleck tile enhances the store’s visual appeal, while the seamless installation contributes to a clean, uniform look.

• Functional beauty: The flooring solution strikes a balance between aesthetics and performance, ensuring both style and durability in the foodhall.