‘Turning Insight into Action – Collaboration for Change’

1–2 July 2026 | Voco St John’s Hotel, Solihull

Open to members and non-members

The UKSFA is proud to welcome two internationally respected sustainability leaders to speak on day one of the UKSFA Conference & Awards 2026.

Now in its 17th year (formerly Carpet Recycling UK), the conference continues to bring together UK, European and international decision makers from across the flooring supply chain to network, collaborate and share ideas that will shape the future of the industry.

This year, we are especially excited and privileged to host keynote speaker Dr Robert Peoples, and sustainability and legislation expert, Dr Hans Peter Breuer. Together, they will offer unique global perspectives, practical experience and valuable insight into the opportunities and challenges ahead for the flooring sector.

Keynote speaker: Dr Robert Peoples (CARE)

Executive Director of the Carpet America Recovery Effort (CARE), Dr Robert Peoples will deliver the day one keynote presentation, ‘Flooring sustainability: It’s time to learn from the past and move forward into the future’.

Bob is internationally recognised for his work in carpet recycling, sustainability, green chemistry and extended producer responsibility (EPR). With decades of experience across industry, science and policy, his session promises to challenge thinking, inspire innovation and encourage meaningful action across the sector.

Bob will share insight on;

• The evolution of carpet recycling and lessons learned globally
• Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and future policy direction
• Practical approaches to sustainability and circularity
• Innovation in green chemistry and material recovery
• Opportunities for collaboration across the supply chain
• What the flooring industry must do next to accelerate change

As Executive Director of CARE, Bob has overseen the organisation’s growth into a $25 million operational enterprise focused on reuse and recycling solutions for post-consumer carpet across North America. He has also played a major role in developing internationally recognised sustainability standards and remains one of the most respected voices in the industry today.

Members will also have the opportunity to book exclusive 1-2-1 sessions with Bob before and during the conference.

EU legislation and sustainability: Dr Hans Peter Breuer

Following Bob’s keynote, Dr Hans Peter Breuer will then present, ‘Legislation: An EU Perspective’.

Hans Peter brings extensive international leadership experience across technical textiles, automotive, apparel and industrial manufacturing sectors. Since 2022, he has served as Managing Director of GUT/ECRA and sits on the board of IBU.

His session will explore the rapidly changing legislative landscape across Europe and what it means for the flooring industry moving forward.

Hans Peter will discuss;

• Upcoming EU sustainability legislation and regulation
• The future impact of EPR and circular economy policies
• Sustainability expectations across European markets
• The role of transparency, reporting and environmental standards
• How manufacturers and supply chains can prepare for change
• International perspectives on innovation and compliance

The session will conclude with a live Q&A discussion, giving delegates the opportunity to ask questions directly and gain insider insight into what is coming next for the industry.

The conference is a chance to learn from global experts, challenge ideas, share perspectives and take away practical knowledge that can help shape future strategy and decision-making.

Come prepared with questions, join the discussion and be part of the conversation driving change across the flooring sector.

BOOK now.