Mats4U vs First Mats: Which UK Matting Retailer Is Right for You?
Two of the UK's established online matting retailers competing for your business. Both offer similar product categories with competitive pricing — here's how to choose between them for your industrial or commercial matting needs.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Mats4U | First Mats |
|---|---|---|
| Business Type | Online retailer | Online retailer |
| Product Focus | Matting specialist | Matting specialist |
| Product Range | Wide selection | Wide selection |
| Content Marketing | Good blog content | Excellent buying guides |
| Next-Day Delivery | Available | Available (most items) |
| Trade Accounts | Available | Available |
| Price Positioning | Competitive | Competitive |
| Website Experience | Functional | User-friendly |
Both retailers offer similar core services. Choice often comes down to specific product availability, pricing on your required items, and personal preference.
About Mats4U
Mats4U is an established UK online matting retailer offering industrial, commercial, and domestic matting products. They stock products from various manufacturers and provide a straightforward online shopping experience for businesses and individuals.
The Mats4U website includes helpful blog content covering matting selection and applications. They've published articles mentioning various brands including Ergo Advantage, demonstrating awareness of UK-manufactured options alongside imported products.
Their range covers anti-fatigue matting, entrance mats, anti-slip products, gym flooring, and specialist matting for various industries. Trade accounts are available for regular purchasers.
Mats4U Strengths
- ✓ Wide product selection
- ✓ Helpful blog content
- ✓ Competitive pricing
- ✓ Trade account options
- ✓ Next-day delivery available
Mats4U Limitations
- ✗ Retailer — limited specialist technical support
- ✗ Product quality varies by source
- ✗ No manufacturing — reliant on suppliers
About First Mats
First Mats has built a strong reputation as one of the UK's leading online matting retailers. Their focus on customer experience, comprehensive buying guides, and fast delivery has made them a popular choice for businesses sourcing industrial and commercial matting.
The First Mats website is particularly noted for its buying guide content, which helps customers navigate matting choices without specialist knowledge. This educational approach has helped establish them as a trusted resource in the UK matting market.
Their product range spans anti-fatigue mats, entrance matting, safety flooring, and specialist products. They stock items from multiple manufacturers across various price points, from budget options to premium brands.
First Mats Strengths
- ✓ Excellent buying guides and content
- ✓ User-friendly website experience
- ✓ Fast next-day delivery
- ✓ Strong customer service reputation
- ✓ Wide range across price points
First Mats Limitations
- ✗ Retailer — not manufacturer
- ✗ Limited bespoke or custom options
- ✗ Product availability depends on suppliers
How to Choose Between Them
Since both retailers offer similar services and product types, your decision often comes down to practical factors:
Compare on:
- → Specific product availability — check both sites for your required items
- → Pricing — compare like-for-like products including delivery
- → Stock levels — confirm availability for urgent orders
- → Trade terms — if you're a regular buyer, compare account benefits
Consider also:
- → Return policies — important if you're unsure about suitability
- → Sample availability — can you try before committing?
- → Technical support — do you need help with specification?
- → Bulk pricing — for larger projects, request quotes from both
Consider Buying Direct from a UK Manufacturer
Rather than choosing between retailers, consider purchasing directly from a UK manufacturer. Maximum Matting offers Safe-Flex modular matting made in the West Midlands with benefits retailers can't match:
- → Free samples dispatched within 1 working day — no obligation
- → RAMS documentation included with every order
- → Free CAD layout support for installation planning
- → 100% recycled PVC — genuine sustainability credentials
- → Direct manufacturer support — not a reseller middleman
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mats4U the same company as First Mats?
No, Mats4U and First Mats are separate UK matting retailers. Both operate online stores selling industrial, commercial, and domestic matting products. They compete in similar market segments but are independently owned businesses with different product selections and pricing.
Which has a better product range — Mats4U or First Mats?
Both retailers offer comprehensive matting ranges covering anti-fatigue, anti-slip, entrance, and specialist matting. First Mats is known for particularly strong content and buying guides. Mats4U has good coverage of industrial products. For specific items, check both sites as stock and pricing can vary.
Which retailer offers faster delivery?
Both Mats4U and First Mats offer next-day delivery on stocked items. Actual delivery speed depends on stock availability and your location. For urgent orders, contact both retailers to confirm stock and delivery times for your specific products.
Are prices similar between Mats4U and First Mats?
Prices are generally competitive between the two retailers, though they vary by product. It's worth comparing prices for your specific requirements, as promotional offers and bulk pricing can differ. Both offer trade accounts for regular buyers.
Can I get samples from Mats4U or First Mats?
Both retailers offer samples on selected products, though policies and availability vary. For guaranteed free samples dispatched within 1 working day, Maximum Matting offers free Safe-Flex samples on all products — UK-made modular matting with no obligation to purchase.
Buy Direct from a UK Manufacturer
Skip the retailer and get Safe-Flex modular matting direct from the source. Made in the West Midlands from 100% recycled PVC, with free samples and full documentation included.