UZIN UTZ Proudly Sponsors CFA Flooring Apprentice of the Year 2026

UZIN UTZ UK Ltd is proud to once again sponsor the Contract Flooring Association (CFA) Flooring Apprentice of the Year competition. This prestigious initiative celebrates the next generation of flooring professionals, showcasing the importance of high-quality training and apprenticeships across the UK.

This year’s award was presented live at InstallerSHOW 2026 at the NEC in Birmingham, where industry colleagues, employers and training providers came together to recognise the outstanding achievements of three talented apprentices.

The 2026 Flooring Apprentice of the Year title was awarded to Sam Shetliffe of Capital Flooring and Blinds in Ilkeston, Derby. Jack Evans of Baker Flooring Ltd and Jay Howard of MacGregor Flooring Company Ltd were named as runners-up. Sam recently completed his apprenticeship with FITA and Webs Training Ltd and continues to develop his skills with his employer. The CFA judges highlighted his high standard of workmanship, exceptional care and professionalism. Jack and Jay also impressed the judges with the quality of their submissions, showcasing strong technical abilities, thorough preparation and a clear commitment to professional development.

As part of its sponsorship, UZIN UTZ was pleased to support the finalists with professional WOLFF tools specifically designed for flooring installers. The overall winner, Sam Shetliffe, received a WOLFF Railcut tool. Each of the runners-up, Jack Evans and Jay Howard, received a WOLFF knife as recognition of their achievement, equipping them with reliable tools for their future careers. These prizes underline UZIN UTZ’s belief that access to the right tools, training and support is essential for apprentices.

The prizes were presented at InstallerSHOW by Daniel Leeson, Marketing Manager at UZIN UTZ UK Ltd, who congratulated the apprentices on behalf of the company. Daniel remarked:

“Huge congratulations to Sam on being named this year’s Flooring Apprentice of the Year, as well as Jack and Jay for reaching the finals. The standard of entries was extremely high and it’s inspiring to see such talent, professionalism and enthusiasm emerging in the next generation of fitters."