ABOUT US
142 years on the floor
Robert Malcolm has been sourcing and supplying flooring to New Zealand since 1884. Six generations of family and one straightforward way of doing business.
BY THE NUMBERS
The shape of 142 years
OUR STORY
From one importer to a national network
1884 Robert Malcolm, an entrepreneurial merchant, sets up an importing house in Christchurch. The first shipments arrive from Europe, India and Turkey — carpets, linen, fabric, lingerie, gloves, table linen, handmade rugs.
Through the 20th century The business narrows its focus to flooring. Direct relationships with manufacturers in Belgium, the Netherlands, the UK and beyond give Robert Malcolm access to ranges most New Zealand merchants couldn't get. Christchurch remains the head office; Wellington and Auckland follow.
Today Six product categories, more than 280 retailers nationwide, and still independently owned by the family. The same approach that worked in 1884 — go directly to the makers, choose carefully, and keep showing up.
WHAT WE STAND FOR
Four things, no exceptions
Quality you can stand on We don't carry flooring we wouldn't lay in our own homes. Every range is tested for New Zealand conditions before it makes our catalogue.
Service that picks up the phone Real people, direct lines. When you call, you get answers.
New Zealand owned since 1884 Still independent, still family-run. Not a franchise, not a multinational subsidiary.
Trusted by 280 retailers From Kaitaia to Invercargill. If your local flooring retailer stocks quality, there's a good chance it's ours.
TIMELINE
Flooring New Zealand since 1884
Robert Malcolm has been part of New Zealand flooring for over 140 years. Founded in Christchurch and still family-owned today, we’ve spent that time learning what makes a floor last and how to help people choose the right one.
