COBA vs BiGDUG: Matting Specialist or General Supplier?
Comparing a dedicated matting manufacturer with a broad warehouse equipment supplier. The right choice depends on whether you need specialist expertise or convenient one-stop shopping for general supplies.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | COBA Europe | BiGDUG |
|---|---|---|
| Business Focus | Matting specialist | Warehouse & storage generalist |
| Years in Matting | 35+ years | Matting as one category |
| Product Range (Matting) | Extensive specialist range | Selected range |
| UK Manufacturing | Yes (some products) | Stocks third-party brands |
| Technical Support | Specialist expertise | General product support |
| ESD Options | Wide range | Limited selection |
| Custom Solutions | Available | Standard sizes only |
| Price Positioning | Mid to premium | Value-focused |
| Documentation | Full technical specs | Basic product info |
About COBA Europe
COBA Europe is one of the UK's longest-established industrial matting manufacturers, with over 35 years of experience in developing and producing anti-fatigue, anti-slip, and specialist matting products. Their focus is entirely on flooring solutions for industrial and commercial environments.
As a manufacturer rather than just a reseller, COBA controls product quality and can provide comprehensive technical documentation including test certificates, material specifications, and compliance information. Their R&D team continually develops products for specific industry challenges.
The COBA range includes well-known products like Fatigue-Step, Bubblemat, Orthomat, and Deckplate — each designed for particular applications from dry assembly lines to wet processing areas and ESD-sensitive electronics manufacturing.
COBA Europe Strengths
- ✓ 35+ years specialist matting expertise
- ✓ UK and European manufacturing
- ✓ Comprehensive product range for all applications
- ✓ Full technical documentation and certifications
- ✓ Expert technical support and specification advice
COBA Europe Limitations
- ✗ Higher price point than budget alternatives
- ✗ May be over-specified for simple applications
- ✗ Matting only — need other suppliers for related equipment
About BiGDUG
BiGDUG is a UK-based supplier of warehouse, workshop, and storage equipment. They offer a broad catalogue covering shelving, workbenches, storage bins, handling equipment, and industrial flooring including matting. Their business model focuses on providing competitive prices across a wide product range.
For businesses setting up or expanding facilities, BiGDUG offers the convenience of sourcing multiple product categories from one supplier. Their matting selection covers common anti-fatigue and anti-slip options suitable for general warehouse and workshop use.
As a generalist supplier, BiGDUG doesn't manufacture matting themselves but sources products to meet common requirements. This approach keeps prices competitive but limits the technical depth of their matting offering.
BiGDUG Strengths
- ✓ Competitive pricing on standard products
- ✓ One-stop shop for warehouse equipment
- ✓ Simple online ordering process
- ✓ Good for basic, non-specialist matting needs
- ✓ Consolidate orders across product categories
BiGDUG Limitations
- ✗ Limited matting expertise and technical support
- ✗ Smaller selection of specialist matting
- ✗ Limited ESD and chemical-resistant options
- ✗ Basic product documentation
- ✗ No custom sizing or bespoke solutions
When to Choose Each Supplier
Choose COBA Europe if you need:
- → Specific certifications or compliance documentation
- → ESD matting for electronics manufacturing
- → Chemical-resistant matting for processing
- → Technical advice on product selection
- → Custom solutions or bespoke sizing
Choose BiGDUG if you need:
- → Basic anti-fatigue mats for general use
- → One order combining matting with other equipment
- → Budget-friendly options for non-critical areas
- → Quick delivery on standard products
- → Simple, straightforward purchasing
Consider Maximum Matting if you need:
- → UK-manufactured matting with full traceability
- → 100% recycled PVC meeting sustainability targets
- → RAMS documentation for health and safety compliance
- → Free CAD layouts for installation planning
- → Free samples dispatched within 1 working day
Frequently Asked Questions
Is COBA better than BiGDUG for anti-fatigue matting?
COBA Europe offers significantly more expertise in anti-fatigue matting as it's their core business. They manufacture products like Fatigue-Step, Bubblemat, and Orthomat with detailed technical specifications. BiGDUG stocks matting as one category among many warehouse products, so while their prices may be competitive, you get less specialist support and fewer options.
Does BiGDUG sell COBA products?
BiGDUG stocks a range of industrial matting products, which may include some COBA-manufactured items or similar products from various suppliers. For the full COBA range with technical support direct from the manufacturer, purchasing through COBA's distribution network is recommended.
Which is more cost-effective for matting — COBA or BiGDUG?
BiGDUG typically offers lower prices as part of their value-focused warehouse supplies business. However, COBA's specialist matting often provides better long-term value through superior durability, correct specification for your application, and proper technical documentation for compliance purposes.
Can I get technical advice on matting from BiGDUG?
BiGDUG provides general product support but cannot match the specialist matting expertise available from COBA or dedicated matting suppliers. For applications requiring specific slip ratings, ESD compliance, or chemical resistance, specialist suppliers provide more reliable guidance.
Should I buy matting from a specialist or general supplier?
For occasional, non-critical matting needs, general suppliers like BiGDUG offer convenience and competitive pricing. For industrial applications requiring compliance documentation, specific certifications, or technical specifications, specialist suppliers like COBA Europe or Maximum Matting provide better support and more appropriate products.
Try UK-Made Safe-Flex Matting
Get specialist-quality matting with the convenience of quick delivery. Made in the West Midlands from 100% recycled PVC, with RAMS documentation and free CAD layout support included.