Dont know if anyone can answer this, but if you went to your local flooring retailer in B.C for say carpets or vinyl or wood flooring, does anyone know whether the installers are employed or are subcontracted like here in the Uk (I get the impression that they employ their installers, but if anyone can clarify this it would be most appreciated) sorry if this is a bit vague. we will be speaking to retailers in the Spring but would like a little background info if anyone knows, cheers. Mel

I would imagine they are subbies - they seem to be over this side - at least at the big stores anyway.

Yea big stores here too, but I was wondering about the Independents. We are possibly speaking to Nu-floors - any views on them would be appreciated, they seem to employ their fitters. Are they a large outlet as they seem to be from over here or are they Independents....We aren't sure. Cheers. Mel

I Googled Nu-Floors website and I would say it is a franchised operation. Most stores/outlets are in Western Canada. It appears they employ their own installers which is not common in the retail flooring industry in Canada. Most companies subcontract because that way they don't have to pay benefits, vacations etc and have installers standing around if no work available.

Agreed, the vast majority of installer are subcontractors.