Piper Hales Flooring Group recently delivered another flawless retail refit in partnership with R G Carter.
When leading national retailer Tesco required a flooring refresh at its busy Slough store, Piper Hales Flooring Group Ltd once again rose to the challenge. Tasked by long-term partner R G Carter, the team delivered a seamless refit across several live trading areas — all completed on time, on budget, and with zero disruption to store operations.
The project demanded not only technical expertise but also exceptional coordination, as the store remained open throughout the refurbishment. Working in phased zones and to tight deadlines, the Piper Hales team showcased the professionalism and precision that continue to define the company’s reputation in the retail and commercial flooring sector.
The Challenge
Retail refits are among the most complex environments for any flooring specialist. At Tesco Slough, the brief called for a complete uplift and replacement of existing floor coverings across the bakery (front and back of house), produce section, and clothing department.
The key challenges included:
- Live-store working conditions, requiring quiet, dust-controlled processes and flexible shift patterns.
- Compressed timelines,
- Multiple subfloor types, demanding tailored preparation for each zone.
- Coordination with parallel trades, including refrigeration, joinery, and electrical works.
- Each factor placed emphasis on planning, adaptability, and consistent communication – hallmarks of Piper Hales’ approach to every
retail project.
Technical approach
Comprehensive preparation
The project began with a detailed pre-start survey alongside R G Carter’s site management and Tesco’s facilities team. Together, the programme was split into manageable phases, allowing daily operations to continue with minimal interference.
Uplift and subfloor works
The existing floor finishes were carefully uplifted, and all residues removed to reveal the base substrates. Once cleaned and primed, the subfloors were levelled using Ardex NA, chosen for its rapid setting time, high compressive strength, and proven performance in heavy-use environments.
Installation Excellence
The new flooring package featured a blend of high-quality products to meet both functional and aesthetic demands: - 600 sqm of Moduleo LVT in high-traffic front-of-house areas.
- 400 sqm of Amtico LVT in the clothing department for a premium retail appearance.
- Altro Walkway safety flooring in back-of-house bakery zones, providing slip resistance and hygiene compliance.
All installations were carried out to manufacturer specifications, ensuring durability and long-term performance under the pressures of daily retail footfall.
Teamwork and coordination
Working within a live supermarket environment required flexibility and communication at every level. The Piper Hales installation teams operated across varied shifts — including nights and weekends — to align with store trading hours and other contractors’ activities.
Site management conducted daily reviews to adjust sequencing and ensure smooth progress. This proactive approach prevented delays and allowed the store to remain fully operational throughout.
Results and outcomes
The project was completed on time, to specification, and without disruption to store operations. The result is a refreshed, durable, and visually cohesive flooring solution that enhances the shopping environment while meeting Tesco’s high safety and performance standards.
Feedback from both R G Carter and Tesco management praised the Piper Hales team’s workmanship, organisation, and professionalism throughout the process.
Acknowledgements
Piper Hales Flooring Group extends sincere thanks to all team members who contributed to the successful delivery of this project. In particular, appreciation goes to PFC Flooring Supplies, for reliable product logistics and support, as well as Steve Payne and Jennie Norris, for ensuring materials arrived on schedule and installation continuity was maintained.
Their combined effort exemplifies the collaborative spirit that drives each Piper Hales project from planning to completion.
Building on success
This project continues the strong working relationship between Piper Hales Flooring Group and R G Carter, built on trust, communication, and consistent delivery across multiple retail and commercial projects.
“Our teams take great pride in delivering projects that combine technical accuracy with minimal disruption,” said a company spokesperson. “Every refit reinforces our commitment to quality, efficiency, and partnership with our clients.”
Looking forward, Piper Hales Flooring Group remains focused on expanding its capabilities across the retail, commercial, and housing sectors — always bringing the same dedication to craftsmanship and client satisfaction. We are also pleased to announce our new hygienic wall cladding division has started in 2025.
Conclusion
The Tesco Slough refit stands as another excellent example of Piper Hales Flooring Group’s ability to deliver projects on time and on budget. From subfloor preparation to precision LVT installation, the project showcases how planning, teamwork, and product knowledge come together to achieve outstanding results.
Another project delivered. Another client satisfied. Another one over the line.
Project overview - Client: R G Carter Construction
- End Client: Tesco Stores Ltd
- Location: Slough, Berkshire
- Sector: Retail Refit
- Floor Area: 1,000 sqm
- Products: Moduleo LVT, Amtico LVT,
Altro Walkway, Ardex NA
