Our Journey
History
With roots deeply embedded in the rug industry, our story is one of tradition, craftsmanship, and a commitment to quality.
Jonathan Gooch, our Managing Director, grew up surrounded by the rich textures and stories of rugs. His father, John Gooch Senior, began working in the rug trade at the age of 16 and built a respected reputation over decades in the industry. Jonathan followed in his father's footsteps, learning the business first-hand while working alongside him at China Carpets.
In 2003, Jonathan launched Gooch Oriental, combining his heritage with a vision to bring beautifully hand-crafted rugs to a wider market. Starting with sourcing wool and silk rugs from China, Pakistan, and India, he introduced a stunning range of styles to leading high street and independent retailers across the UK.
As demand grew, so did the brand’s sourcing capabilities. The Gooch name quickly became synonymous with premium craftsmanship, expanding into high-end hand-knotted rugs from Nepal, luxurious Turkish weaves, and unique traditional and tribal rugs sourced throughout the Middle East.
Though John Gooch Senior officially retired in 2018 at the age of 80, his wisdom and experience continue to shape the company today, as he remains actively involved.
Meet The Team
At the heart of our company is a dedicated team driven by a shared passion for excellence, innovation, and delivering top-quality service. Each member of our team brings unique skills and expertise, working together to ensure smooth operations and continued growth.
Jonathan – Managing Director
With a clear vision and a hands-on leadership style, Jonathan steers the company with strategic insight and unwavering commitment. His direction is the backbone of our success and progress.
William – Procurement Manager
William ensures we source the best products at the right value. His keen eye for detail and strong supplier relationships keep our procurement efficient and reliable.
Gareth – Sales Manager
Gareth leads our sales efforts with passion and precision. His strong relationships with clients and deep product knowledge help drive our business forward.
Jonny – Merchandiser
Jonny has a sharp sense of what sells. He keeps our products presented at their best, ensuring everything is in the right place at the right time to maximize impact.
Sarah – Bookkeeper & HR
Sarah keeps our finances in check and ensures our team is supported from the inside out. Her dual role makes her a vital pillar in both our operations and workplace culture.
Ashleigh – PA to Jonathan & Product Development
Ashleigh wears multiple hats, balancing executive support with a creative role in developing new products. Her energy and versatility help keep our ideas fresh and our team organized.
Noelene – Administrator
The glue that holds everything together, Noelene keeps our admin running smoothly. Her attention to detail and behind-the-scenes support are essential to our daily success.
Clarke – Warehouse Operations
Clarke is a key part of our fulfilment process, carefully picking and packing orders to ensure every product arrives in perfect condition and on time.
