IMAGINE a business that combines 17 years’ experience and local knowledge with everything that is new and bang up-to-date in their industry.
Including a new name!
What used to be known as Metro Tiles Airlie Beach, for 17 years, has now rebranded as Airlie Tiles & Design Studio.
Airlie Tiles & Design Studio is still owned by Rebecca and Martin Ross, who originally established the successful Cannonvale business, in November 2005.
The difference is, it is now independently owned, rather than being part of a franchise.
This is something that excites and motivates Ms Ross greatly.
“We made the initial changes last year, in July, after 16 ½ years,” Ms Ross said.
“It wasn’t an easy decision to make the change, after all these years, but it’s one we are very happy we made.
“It’s probably well overdue. It feels great to finally be an independently owned business.”
Same great service
“Even though the name has changed, how the business operates is still the same,” Ms Ross said.
“Some new procedures will come into play this year but it’s still the same great service and dedication – I am still on hand, most days.
“Some small changes are still to be finalised and we are still working on our website. So you can find us on Instagram and Facebook for now.”
Wider range
Ms Ross said the business sold all kinds of tiles for walls and floors, from porcelain to natural stone, and still sourced tiles from Metro Tiles.
“However, with the ability to now also source from a wide range of other suppliers, it means our range is now much more extensive, some tiles are still exclusive to our store,” she said.
“As part of the overall change, we have refreshed our showroom, with new displays and new counter, with more to come – it’s a work in progress!
Expert advice
The business also offers a professional Interior Design service, which was started in 2012.
In 2023, Ms Ross wants to grow this side of the business, which caters for new homes, renovations, and commercial projects.
“We included Design Studio in our new name, as we want to make people aware that we don’t just do tiles,” she said.
“We offer a complete Interior Design service and we have several builders that already use our service, by sending their clients to us for the selection of internal and external finishes in their new homes and for their renovations.”
New concept store
In September 2022, Ms Ross and her hardworking team opened a concept store, in Bowen.
“It was very exciting and nerve wracking at the same time,” she said.
“We are still feeling our way and finding our feet.”
Called Studio 42, the Bowen showroom offers the same great service and expert advice, with a wide range of internal and external tiles, for every kind of job and customer taste.
It is open from 10am to 5pm on Monday, Thursday and Friday, and is run by the ‘wonderful’ Shelly.
Appointments can be made on other days at the Williams Street showroom.
