Paint & Coatings Industry
  Home
  Subscribe to NFT L!VE
  Subscribe
  NFT L!VE
  Subscribe to eNewsletter
  Subscription Customer Service
  Online
  Breaking News
  Web Exclusives
  Green Products Pavilion
  Green Matters
  Calendar
  Product of the Week
  Floor Tour Blog
  Flooring Insider.com
  Career Center
  Webinars
  Current
  Cover Story
  Features
  Columns
  Industry News
  Products
  Resources
  Archives
  eNewsletter Archive
  Trade Directory + Buyers Guide
  Wood Flooring Guide
  Radiant Flooring Guide
  Digital Radiant Flooring Guide
  Classifieds
  AEC Store
  Industry Links
  Market Research
  Product Info (FREE)
  NFT Info
Search in: EditorialProductsCompanies
Web Exclusives

NAW presents new series of white papers on distribution selling

The National Association of Wholesalers-Distributors (NAW) is publishing a new series of quarterly, downloadable white papers on critical wholesale distribution sales management topics titled, “Innovations in Distribution Selling Research Series.”


Centiva launches video focusing on people of the company

Centiva has unveiled "Our People Make Centiva," a YouTube video highlighting some of the people at the company and what makes Centiva unique.


Flooring tips from Jamie Herzlinger

Designer Jamie Herzlinger offers tips and advice on how to choose the right flooring material, design and placement.


Small Retailers: Don’t Ignore Senior Consumers

With the holiday shopping season approaching, small retailers are looking for any edge they can get over big-box stores and discount websites.


Shaw Contract Group names Design Is... winners

Shaw Contract Group recently named the winners of its 2011 Design Is ... contest.


Johnsonite a key part of Nationwide Children's Hospital project

Long before construction on the Nationwide Children's Hospital expansion began in October 2010, project designers were drawing plans for an intricate and creative interior design that evoked the healing power of nature and daylight, and to create a look of whimsy to appeal to children.


Five steps to prevent small business fraud

What measures are you taking to protect your company from fraud?


NAHB: Fix the housing market to bring jobs back

Discussions on the need to restore the nation's languishing housing market in order to rouse job creation and boost economic growth has been prominent this week in congressional testimony from Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke and in newspapers across the country.


The Rug Market America debuts expanded catalog

The Rug Market America has launched its latest full product catalog in time for the 2011 Fall High Point Furniture Market. 


Get Ready To Hire Generation Z

Just as companies have adjusted to the demands of generation Y, a new generation is set to graduate from college: generation Z.


Atlanta Rug Market features range of events

The Atlanta International Area Rug Market from July 16-20, held in conjunction with the July 14-20 Atlanta International Gift & Home Furnishings Market, featured hand-made, machine-made and antique merchandise from some of the area rug industry’s most important and respected manufacturers and importers.


INSTALL reflects on Labor Day, started by carpenters union founder

P.J. McGuire is widely credited as the founder of Labor Day. He also founded the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America, the group that developed the curriculum used to train INSTALL professionals.


Tile of Spain unveils new U.S. microsite

TileofSpainUSA, a US-based microsite, is now available and geared specifically towards the wants and needs of the U.S. market.


Meier, Lewandowski win Mannington tx:style contest


Mannington Commercial has announced the two grand prize winners in the third year of its tx:style design challenge: A la mode by Sara Meier and Coastal Rocks by Paul Lewandowski.



WONZ launches app on benefits of wool

Wools of New Zealand is offering a free application for the iPad and iPhone to spread the word about the health, sustainability, beauty and comfort benefits of wool.


Amtico receives SHARP certification for safety from OSHA

Amtico International has been certified to the Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program (SHARP) by the U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA).


BNP Media partners with Dirty Jobs’ Mike Rowe

Troy, Mich. – BNP Media, parent company of National Floor Trends, has entered into a partnership with Mike Rowe, host of cable show Dirty Jobs, to supply blogs for his Trades Hub website.


GSA to test new technologies with Green Proving Ground program

GSA announced that it will test and evaluate 16 emerging sustainable building technologies and practices in select federal facilities under its Green Proving Ground program.


NKBA announces 2011 Design Competition winners

The National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) has announced the finalists in the 2011 NKBA Design Competition, honoring the best kitchen and bath designs of the year.


BNP Media partners with BirdDog Career Centers

BNP Media, parent company of National Floor Trends, Floor Covering Installer, TILE, Stone World and Contemporary Stone & Tile Design, has announced a new partnership with BirdDog Career Centers.


Domotex Asia/Chinafloor boasts record turnout

The recent Domotex Asia/Chinafloor in Shanghai featured the show's largest turnout yet, with 1,060 exhibitors and 39,343 visitors on hand for the three-day event.


Exclusive interview: IVC's Xavier Steyaert

NFT recently spoke with Xavier Steyaert, IVC US's ceo, during the grand opening of the company's new plant in Dalton, Ga.


Innovative Pros Share How They Succeed During Tough Times

BNP Media is sharing a five-minute video slideshow of stories from readers who are finding success during the construction downturn.


Tandus announces winners of Powerbond design contest

Tandus Flooring recently named Robert Holm, sr. professional associate at HDR, Omaha, and Lauren Shaw, a Virginia Tech School of Architecture graduate student, the winners of its Powerbond Inlay Design Competition.


Mannington unveils consumer blog

Mannington has launched its first consumer blog, “At Home,” at blog.manningtonathome.com.


Industry Q&A: Georgina Sikorski, CARE

NFT recently spoke with Georgina Sikorski, executive director of Carpet America Recovery Effort (CARE), about California AB 2398.

by Michael Chmielecki


Exclusive interview: Surfaces/StonExpo's Dana Teague

Dana Teague, show director for Surfaces/StonExpo, recently spoke with NFT about the 2011 show, what it brings to the industry and what to expect next year.


Industry Q&A: Merritt stresses importance of technology

National Floor Trends recently sat down with Randy Merritt, Shaw president, to talk about the company's recent Unity 2011 dealer conference in Orlando, Fla., and how he sees the economy progressing this year.


Exclusive interview: Mohawk's David Duncan

NFT recently sat down with David Duncan, Mohawk's svp marketing, to talk about the company's recent Solutions dealer conference near Washington, D.C., and the launch of new products including the Wear-Dated Revive program.


Exclusive interview: CBC Flooring/Indelval

NFT recently spoke with Indelval and CBC Flooring executives about the companies' partnership to bring Indelval rubber flooring to the North American market.


Jovinelli: 'Nothing is off the table' for a successful business

NFT recently spoke with Joseph Jovinelli, vp sales for Laurel, Md.-based FloorMax, a Carpet N Things Company.

by Michael Chmielecki


Halbert discusses green design trends

Torie Halbert, a finalist on HGTV’s Design Star, spoke with NFT about some of the latest green building trends in Texas and partnering with Nature’s Carpet.


Shaw Contract Group celebrates winners of 'Design Is...'

In its fifth year, the Shaw Contract Group Design Is… Award program honored firms using a broad definition of design.


Flooring artisans recognized by NWFA contest

The National Wood Flooring Association announced the winners of its 2010 Wood Floor of the Year Contest during its annual convention in Washington, D.C., last March.


Exclusive interview with Shaw’s Wilkerson, West and Williams

NFT recently spoke to Shaw executives about the company’s second annual Sustainability Report, Shaw’s continued green efforts and how this report is important to retailers.


Mullican launches updated website

As part of its 25th anniversary, Mullican Flooring has revamped its website at www.mullicanflooring.com.


Mr. David’s wins Starnet Best Overall

Mr. David’s Flooring recently won Best Overall in the 2010 Starnet Design Awards for its work on the Pediatric Short Stay Suite at Central DuPage Hospital project in Chicago.


Industry Q&A: Ralph Boe, Beaulieu of America

NFT recently spoke with Ralph Boe, ceo and president of Beaulieu of America, about emerging trends in residential and commercial carpet products, as well as the importance of being a green manufacturer.


Shaw to donate carpet to 'Make It Right' homes

Shaw Industries Group has announced it will provide recyclable Type 6 Anso nylon carpet to the Make It Right Foundation for new homes in New Orleans' Lower 9th Ward.


Flooring Contractors and LEED: Challenges, Desires and Future Expectations

Flooring contractors indicate they are facing both administrative and technical challenges related to their involvement with LEED projects, according to a recently conducted survey.

by Ephraim Senbetta


Indoor/Outdoor Rugs Gallery




Butler Rogers Baskett hits home run with MLB HQ design

Butler Rogers Baskett recently received the Antron Carpet Fiber Designed to Perform Award grand prize from Invista for its design of Major League Baseball’s headquarters in New York City.


Capel says sales jumped at High Point

In a sign that the economy may be improving, Capel Rugs said its sales skyrocketed 70 percent at this spring's High Point Market compared to last year.


FSC-US revises its forest management standard

The United States national office of the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC–US) has launched the revised FSC-US Forest Management Standard for forest operations in the contiguous U.S.


Colleague seeks donations for Calandrino tribute

Ann Seay, a colleague of the recently departed Sonna Calandrino, is helping to put together an industry tribute to celebrate Calandrino's life. The tribute is scheduled for Tuesday, Aug. 17, in Dalton, Ga.


Industry Q&A: Congoleum’s Dennis Jarosz

NFT recently spoke with Dennis Jarosz, Congoleum’s sr vp sales and marketing. The company recently launched Connections, a glueless flooring system which features an adhesive film used in the aerospace industry.

by Michael Chmielecki


Georgia superintendent recommends CRI program

Georgia Schools Superintendent Kathy Cox has recommended implementing the Carpet and Rug Institute's Seal of Approval testing program for carpet cleaning products.


USGBC, other associations back green building code

The U.S. Green Building Council and three other organizations -- the International Code Council (ICC), the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE), and the Illuminating Engineering Society of North America (IES) -- have launched the International Green Construction Code.


Retailers, sales reps win CMI POP Photo Contest

Colonial Mills Inc. (CMI) recently announced the winners of a Photo Contest that encouraged dealers to completely update their display systems and send in a photo of the upgrade.


New online course focuses on stone basics

The University of Ceramic Tile and Stone (UofCTS) is launching its newest online course, Understanding the Basics of Natural Stone.


Euparal changes name, adds three members

Euparal, an international organization of parquet importers and distributors, recently changed its name to Global Flooring Alliance and added three members: BoDeWo (Switzerland), Polimpex (Russia) and Woodpecker B.V. (the Netherlands).


Annual CANstruction contest returns to Chicago

The Merchandise Mart in Chicago is hosting the 4th annual CANstruction contest, through June 2.


Video: Karim Rashid at Coverings 2010

Arpi Nalbandian, editor of TILE Magazine and National Floor Trends' tile & stone editor, shot video of designer Karim Rashid at Coverings 2010 talking about the creation of TAU/Porcelanatto's NO-Stalgia collection.


Exclusive interview with Ed Korczak

NFT spoke with Ed Korczak, the executive director/ceo of the National Wood Flooring Association at the group's 25th anniversary meeting in National Harbor, Md., near Washington, D.C.


Gary Langley: ‘The FCIF has given me hope’

Mohawk Industries employee Gary Langley never imagined himself in such a frail state. The kind of guy who would give you the shirt off his back, Langley was a man who had friends everywhere and could squeeze a smile from even the most rigid lips.


by Leah Gross-Harmon


Execs Share Ideas for Growth at Surfaces 2010

Seven retail executives took the stage at the Sands Expo & Convention Center in February for a discussion about the economy and how retailers can keep their businesses profitable.

by Michael Chmielecki


Four Shaw plants earn fifth WRAP award in row

Four Shaw facilities were recently recognized for the fifth year in a row by CalRecycle’s Waste Reduction Awards Program (WRAP), honoring successful waste to landfill reduction initiatives.


Nourison among ‘Magnificent’ winners

Nourison, Couristan and Colonial Mills Inc. (CMI) were among the winners of the America’s Magnificent Carpet Awards, held during the winter Atlanta Rug Market.


At CCA Global convention, new products, strengthened partnerships

CCA Global Partners celebrated 25 years of Carpet One Floor & Home and announced a new direct sales approach with Armstrong at its recent convention in Washington, D.C.


Case Study: Acoustics in Camden Commons, Franklin, Tenn.

Keene Building Products' QUIET QURL MT "Muffler" sound mats were recently used in the Camden Commons condominium complex in Franklin, Tenn. The Muffler product is designed to improve the IIC level by as much as seven points, according to Keene.


Centiva launches Big Book 2.0

Centiva has unveiled Big Book 2.0, a comprehensive product guide covering the company’s Wood, Stone and World Options resilient collections for both residential and commercial use..


Guest Column: LEED and the Wood Flooring Contractor

Anyone involved in construction should know more about the LEED Green Building Rating System.  

by Jeffrey Horn


NFT exclusive interview: Mohawk's David Duncan

David Duncan, vp marketing for Mohawk Industries, sat down with NFT at the recent Mohawk Solutions convention in San Antonio, which was Mohawk's first convention to combine dealers from both Floorscapes and ColorCenter Elite stores.


Pergo signs licensing deal with Europe-based Egger

Pergo has entered a mutual licensing agreement with European laminate flooring maker Egger. The agreement covers both Pergo’s PerfectFold patent family and the PRO clic patent held by Egger.


CFI to offer members new benefits in 2010

Certified Floorcovering Installers is offering its membership a range of new benefits in 2010, including discounts at local distributors and manufacturer discounts.


Karastan, WE Cork update websites

Karastan and WE Cork are two of the latest manufacturers to update their websites for easier navigation and a broader array of product information.


Balta Group works on large-scale solar energy install

More than 18,000 solar panels will be installed on the Balta Group's Belgium-based factory roof, in a project the flooring maker calls the region's largest. The company, which manufactures broadloom carpets, rugs and laminate flooring, is devoting 88,000 square meters of its roof area to the project.


Laticrete launches website for its racing sponsorships

Laticrete has unveiled www.laticreteracing.com, a website showcasing the company's racing sponsorships. The site includes information on sponsored cars and drivers, season racing schedules, a photo gallery and live in-car videos from select races.


Shaw hardwood line GREENGUARD certified

All Shaw hardwood flooring products are now GREENGUARD Children & Schools Certified, the GREENGUARD Environmental Institute (GEI) announced today.


In the running: RD Weis installs carpet for NYC Marathon

RD Weis Companies, a full-service commercial flooring provider based in Port Chester, N.Y., installed a carpet across the Wilis Avenue Bridge in New York for the recent New York City Marathon.


Sound Investment: Underlayment Can Boost Acoustical Performance

Contractors, architects, distributors and retailers doing business with owners of new and renovating rental units and condos should recommend or specify acoustical floor underlayment for under new finished floors that meets or exceeds local building department acoustical standards.

by Bob Pratt


Continuing Wood Trade Under the Specter of Lacey

In May 2008 the U.S. passed the world’s most punitive and far reaching “ban” on illegally harvested forest products; declaring this country would no longer traffic in, or allow its consumer market to be the primary channel for “illegally logged wood.”

by James C. Gould


Slim tiles, green products highlight Cersaie 2009

BOLOGNA, ITALY -- Celebrating its 27th edition, Cersaie once again staked its place as the world's largest exhibition of ceramic tiles and bathroom furnishings by drawing an international crowd of over 83,000.

by Alexis Fisher


Floor To Ceiling debuts Kathy Ireland cabinetry

Preferred Brands Corp., parent to the Floor To Ceiling and World of Floors retail groups, has launched a new line of affordably priced custom cabinetry to be marketed nationwide under the Kathy Ireland HOME brand.


Armstrong gets aggressive with hardwood assortment

Armstrong has expanded its hardwood flooring assortment significantly in what the company calls its “most comprehensive hardwood launch ever.” The launch, which includes 126 new SKUs across 13 product collections, features traditional, hand-scraped and exotic/specialty visuals.


Strategis eyes U.S. distribution for Trillium bamboo floors

Strategis International, based in Longueuil, Quebec, is looking for U.S. distributors to carry its Trillium Woodgrain Enhanced Bamboo Flooring.


In museums and exercise rooms, it’s full steam ahead for Cork Direct

Gordon Lewis, spokesperson for Cork Direct, said he was introduced to the durability of cork flooring nearly 15 years ago, when he worked as a museum director near Atlanta. 


NWFA Floor of the Year contest honors top flooring installations

DM Hardwood Designs of Farmington, N.M., and Universal Floors of Washington, D.C., were the big winners in this year’s Wood Floor of the Year contest hosted by the National Wood Flooring Association.


Mohawk University rolls out green course

Mohawk University has launched “Environmental Advantage: Business Growth Through Sustainability,” a course aimed at teaching owners, sales associates and retailers the steps to decrease expenses and increase business with a greener footprint.


The Floor Covering Industry Foundation: Savings Lives -- And Dignity

With the fall of the economy, millions of Americans have found themselves struggling or unable to pay for unexpected healthcare. The floor covering industry is no exception.

by Leah Gross-Harmon


Installing Recessed Shelving with Confidence

In the past when if you wanted recessed shelving in your shower you had to construct it by framing it out, cladding it with cement board and covering it with a waterproof membrane.  


N.C. applauds Unilin plant for offering strong safety

The Unilin Flooring facility in Thomasville, N.C., was recently awarded the Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program (SHARP) Award by the state's Department of Labor for the second year in a row.


Las Vegas Market events to focus on color, trends

The fall edition of the Las Vegas Market, set for Sept. 14-17 at World Market Center Las Vegas, will include a Trend Series to offer attendees a glimpse of "what's hot and what's on the horizon for next season," according to event organizers.


FcB2B group moving closer to adoption of technology

The Floor Covering Business to Business Association (fcB2B) recently held its fourth annual meeting in Atlanta. Attendees said the group is making “great strides” toward the utilization of B2B technology in the industry.


RFCI's Thompson, and his coalition, push HIRE Act in industry

Dean Thompson, president of the Resilient Floor Covering Institute (RFCI) and one of the architects of the proposed Home Improvements Revitalize the Economy Act of 2009, or HIRE Act, spoke with NFT recently about the efforts of his industry coalition to help jumpstart the building products sector.


Revitalized Concrete Flooring Streamlines Building Maintenance

>When looking to repair and revitalize the aging concrete floors throughout its 150,000+ square foot facility in Traverse City, Mich., Cone Drive specifically aimed for a finished floor that would not only look great but also – most importantly for the bottom line – be easy to maintain.

by Bill Feldman


Starnet zeroes in on creative commercial projects with Design Awards

Starnet Worldwide Commercial Flooring Partnership has announced the winners of its 2009 Starnet Design Awards competition. Aimed at honoring the best and most creative designs in commercial projects involving Starnet members, the awards were presented recently at the co-op’s annual meeting in Palm Desert, Calif.


J.H. Freed's Chris Freed reflects on 30 years

San Diego, Calif.-based J.H. Freed & Sons is celebrating its 30th anniversary with a range of sales specials and discounts throughout June. Specials include “Milliken Mondays,” “Click 2sdays” (for Marmoleum Click 2 products), “Wild Card Wednesdays” (for accessories), “Thirty Thursdays” (a $30 delivery charge on orders) and “Flexitec Fridays.”

by Michael Chmielecki


Reflecting on its journey, Mirage celebrates 25 years

Mirage, one of North America’s largest prefinished hardwood flooring makers, recently celebrated its 25th anniversary. All Mirage employees received special commemorative items decorated with flames meant to symbolize the company’s spirit by evoking Mirage reopening for business just three months after being gutted by a fire in 1984, only a year after it opened. Pierre Thabet, the company’s president, joined employees for special activities aimed at honoring Mirage’s history.


J+J/Invision’s Clayton discusses new branding efforts

J & J Industries and Invision recently merged their brands under one name: J+J/Invision. NFT spoke with Mark Clayton, the company’s vp marketing, about what this change means for the company and its customers.

by Michael Chmielecki


Laminate Gallery

The Laminate Gallery is designed to showcase some of the latest and most innovative laminate flooring products available.


Celebrating 100 years of linoleum, Armstrong rolls out new products

Armstrong is celebrating 100 years of producing linoleum for the North American market. To ring in the occasion, the company has unveiled new linoleum patterns and colors, along with a “Color Continuum” specifying system. While the company is not planning an advertising campaign to promote the 100th anniversary, Armstrong said it will mark its milestone at the upcoming NeoCon and Greenbuild shows, and host an exhibit at the company’s Lancaster, Pa., headquarters with vintage advertising.


Alliance Flooring honors retailers at recent convention

Alliance Flooring, parent company of CarpetsPlus Color Tile, Carpetland Color Tile and Floorco Direct to the Trade, held its 12th annual convention earlier this month at the Opryland Hotel in Nashville. Carrying the theme "United We Stand," the meeting was aimed at reminding members that working together they could find ways to power through this tough economy.


NALFA announces Lammy winners

The North American Laminate Flooring Association named the winners of the trade group’s Lammy Awards during the recent Surfaces show in Las Vegas. Designed to honor the best laminate flooring companies and individuals of the year, for "positive accomplishments with regard to the laminate flooring industry," NALFA said.


Shaw Hospitality goes to the Emmys

Two patterns from Shaw Hospitality Group's angela adams Garden collection were front and center during HBO's Emmy afterparty held late last year in Los Angeles. The garden-inspired looks were complemented by several other products designed to evoke a late '50s/early '60s Brazilian architectural feel.


Ultron honors innovative contract designs with Doc Awards

Solutia‘s Ultron carpet fibers has named the winners of the 21st annual Doc Award competition. Named after Dr. Robert F. “Doc” Docherty, a pioneer in the contract interior design industry, the award aims to honor the best contract interior designs and carpet product designs featuring Ultron fiber. The winning architects, designers and manufacturers were honored recently at an awards luncheon in New York City.


Karastan wins two awards at Atlanta Rug Market

Karastan won two awards during this year's America's Magnificent Carpets Awards held earlier this month at the Atlanta Rug Market. Netting its 12th America's Magnificent Carpets award overall, Karastan was honored in the Power-Loomed $1,000+ and Power-Loomed $400-$1,000 retail categories. Specifically, the company was honored for its Eastport rug in the Original Karastan Collection as well as French Quarter in Bluestone from the Sierra Mar Collection.


DaltileGreenworks site explains company’s ‘green’ products, message

Daltile has launched the DaltileGreenworks program, an extension of parent company Mohawk’s Greenworks environmental sustainability initiative. Along with promotng Daltile’s “green” philosophy on its website, the program is aimed as a resource for dealers and builders searching to learn about the LEED rating system and how it relates to “green” tile products.


Flooring makers spruce up websites with sales, ‘green’ tools

A range of companies including Tate Access Floors, Amorim, GranitiFiandre, Couristan, and Balta Group recently revamped their websites with new tools and updated product information. Here is a roundup of the additions to the newly enhanced websites.


J&J/Invision donate rugs to troops in Afghanistan

J&J/Invision recently received an American flag and a message of thanks from U.S. troops stationed in Afghanistan.  The company donated 50 rugs to the soldiers to help keep them warm during the winter months. The flag will be displayed in the front lobby at the company’s corporate office in Dalton, Ga.


Abraham Linc takes on IVC US resilient lines

Bridgeport, W. Va.-based distributor Abraham Linc is now marketing and distributing the IVC US line of glass-back vinyl products in the Virginias, Pennsylvania and western Maryland. According to Abraham Linc, the partnership with the resilient maker is a "good fit."


NTCA sees big jump in attendance at Total Solutions show

The National Tile Contractors Association reported a 29 percent increase in attendance at this year's Total Solutions conference in National Harbor, Md., near Washington, D.C. The two-day show, which included a range of presentations, hands-on demonstrations and manufacturer exhibits, "enjoyed some of the best participation we have ever experienced," said Bart Bettiga, executive director of the NTCA.


Leadership event highlights 15th anniversary CFI meeting

At the Certified Floorcovering Installers’ 15th Anniversary Celebration held recently in Kansas City, Mo., Sam Allman of Allman Consulting presented a rousing Leadership Conference to installers on hand. Sponsored by Mohawk and the World Floor Covering Association, the conference aimed to give attendees tips on energizing their business.


N.J. INSTALL apprentices show their colors during contest

Apprentices of INSTALL's New Jersey program recently showed off their skills (and their patriotism) during a skills contest. Among the highlights were an American flag depicted using VCT, and a tribute to prisoners of war using Forbo linoleum. The work was done by apprentices Andrew Miller and Sean Quinn.


Q&A: Brooks Mancini plans for more consumer education, a WFCA installation standard

The following is an NFT exclusive interview with Brooks Mancini, the newly elected chairman of the board of the World Floor Covering Association and a contractor for nearly 50 years.


Eyeing ‘green’ and growth, Shaw starts new council

Shaw has launched the Growth & Sustainability Council. The group, which comprises 15 top executives at Shaw, will focus on long-term business growth and issues surrounding sustainability. “Shaw sustainability is about driving growth, innovation and productivity throughout the value chain and, therefore, better serving our customers, said Vance Bell, Shaw’s CEO and a member of the council.


CARE honors Shaw, Kruse recycling efforts

Shaw Industries and Kruse Carpet Recycling were named Recyclers of the Year during the recent Carpet America Recovery Effort Conference in Clearwater Beach, Fla. The event, which featured updates on carpet reclamation efforts in the industry and a discussion on the role of government procurement activity, marked the second year that the award was given to both large and small companies.


Mannington receives 5 NFT ‘Styling’ nods: ‘A lot of work goes into these products’

Joe Amato, vp of residential styling for Mannington, said he is proud that his company won five top awards in the recent NFT Styling Excellence competition – more than any other manufacturer this year. Proud, but not surprised.


‘A major market with long-term potential’: Alloc boosts its commercial business

Alloc says that its commercial business is well positioned to grow during the current economic climate. Though most of its sales volume has traditionally been in residential laminate flooring, Alloc said efforts that began three years ago to bolster its commercial business have led to the company “building a foundation that has readied the brand to tap opportunities in 2008’s challenged economy.”



Retail Group Directory

Editor’s Note: The Retail Groups and Franchises listed below are those that responded to a special questionnaire send by National Floor Trends for our 2008 directory. This is not intended to represent all of the industry’s buying groups and should not be interpreted as such. If you represent  a Retail Group or Franchise organization and would like to be listed in this directory, please let us know. 


Armstrong Commercial site takes the ‘LEED’

Armstrong Commercial has updated its website at www.armstrong.com/flooring with details on how each product can contribute to LEED points and the EcoScorecard tool that allows users to evaluate products under several “green” rating systems.


The ‘greening’ of laminate

NFT asked laminate flooring manufacturers to weigh in on the issue of sustainability. It is hard to argue that ‘green’ has become an increasingly important aspect of the industry, but how does this translate to a product that is a composite of natural and manmade materials? Here is what they had to say.


BPS goes ‘Boom’ at recent design show

At a time when many makers of residential flooring are eyeing the commercial market, Bentley Prince Street is taking a different approach. The company, which is based in City of Industry, Calif., was on hand at a recent design show in Santa Monica to promote bps rugs, a line of upscale area rugs that are designed to expand flooring options for the home.


Shaw’s Design Is … Awards seeks best and brightest for 2008 contest

The 2007 Design Is … Awards hosted by Shaw Contract Group honored six firms from the U.S. and across the world for projects that captured “the challenges, processes and results” of great design using Shaw Contract carpet. The award winners were given $2,000 to donate to schools or organizations of their choice. Winners donated to design education funds, arts colleges, demonstration houses and interior design programs.


Armstrong product preview ‘08: Company beefs up existing lines, plans more U.S. production

Armstrong officials gave a preview of some of their latest products during a press event recently at the company’s headquarters in Lancaster, Pa. The company showed off additions to existing lines and discussed the benefits of its recently launched Migrations BioBased Tile product range as well as several green programs. While the products were eye-catching, it was clear that the company is treading carefully in a softening market that one staffer called “a unique economic situation.”

Armstrong Floor Products president and CEO Frank Ready was even more blunt. “It’s a very tough environment,” he said. “We’re very happy where we’re positioned right now – we feel very good about where we’ll finish in 2007, but the market in 2008 is going to be really tough.”



Milliken recognized for ‘Making the Shade’

Milliken was recently honored for “outstanding contributions to urban forestry” by the Georgia Forestry Commission. The flooring maker helped establish the Making the Shade program, which is committed to planting shade trees near elementary school playgrounds to help shield children from high temperatures.


BR-111 Foundation: Hardwood, and heart, in Brazil

Exotic hardwood flooring maker BR-111 and its supply partners say they are doing their part to expand social programs and brighten the lives of children in Brazil through its BR-111 Foundation. The programs offer education and social services to impoverished children in the areas that typically produce BR-111 flooring. According to BR-111 CEO Daniel Pagano, “We have a social responsibility to give back to the communities that produce our flooring products.”


Brintons helps recreate original carpets for historic mansion

Brintons, widely recognized for its range of Axminster carpets, recently participated in a $20 million restoration of the historic Leland Stanford Mansion in San Francisco. Built in 1856, the 19,000 sq. ft. Victorian mansion originally served as the office of three governors and is today used for the state’s diplomatic and business receptions.  Brintons, which was founded in 1783, provided carpet patterns designed to match the original flooring from photographs taken during the 1870s.


Two rug companies expand showrooms as AmericasMart grows

AmericasMart Atlanta is set to add an additional 250,000 sq. ft. of space for furniture, home furnishings and area rugs in time for the January ’08 Atlanta Rug Market. The expansion in Bldg. 1 follows a planned 1.5 million sq. ft. addition to Bldg. 2 slated to open in 2009. When completed, the new wing in Bldg. 2 will create one of the largest assortments of high design, garden and gourmet products in the U.S., according to the company.


WFCA offers Window Coverings course through Trainingspace

Online training group Trainingspace now offers a course on window coverings. Topics include selling window coverings, window coverings types, and measuring, installing and maintaining the product. The window coverings class marks the first course from Trainingspace that moves beyond the traditional areas of flooring and countertops.


At recent convention, CFI celebrates industry ‘challenges’ and ‘changes’

“Change! Challenge! Choice!” was the theme of the 14th annual Certified Floorcovering Installers Association (CFI) meeting in Kansas City, Mo. With an eye toward arming CFI members with the latest tools and techniques to combat the recent downturn in housing, the recent event included educational sessions and hands-on workshops designed to take a hard look at the business.


‘A logical next step’: Intertech opens Rio Grande branch

Full-service commercial flooring provider Intertech Flooring, with offices in Austin and San Antonio, recently opened its third office. Located in Mission, Texas, in the heart of the Rio Grande Valley, the branch location will serve the Rio Grande with the company’s blend of commercial flooring products, installation expertise, design consultation and maintenance services.


Solutia picks judges for 2007 Doc Award contest

Solutia’s Ultron carpet fibers business has named its judges for the upcoming 2007 Doc Award Competition in New York. Set for Nov. 28, the contest aims to honor outstanding achievement in contract interior and product design. The awards honor not only architects and designers and their projects, but carpet mills for creating aesthetic and durable contract floor coverings using the company’s fiber.


Learning without travel’: Mohawk U. adds online courses

Mohawk University, the training arm of Mohawk Industries, has updated its website with new E-Learning online courses, an expanded resource center and an updated calendar of classes and seminars.


Armstrong gets highest LEED approval for Lancaster HQ

Armstrong World Industries said it has received Platinum Certification from the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED rating system for its Lancaster, Pa.-based headquarters. Built in 1998, the location is only the sixth existing building and the first outside of California, to achieve USGBC’s highest certification, according to Armstrong.


CMI’s Summer Splash sample sale aimed at rug dealers

Colonial Mills Inc. is hosting its annual Summer Splash Rug Sample Special event, now through Aug. 31. Featuring savings of up to 60 percent for dealers on the company’s Rug Sample Centers, Swing Arm Systems, Fabric Rug Customizers and Custom POM Sets, the sale is designed to help dealers get the most up-to-date samples and selling tools at deep discounts.


CRI certifies latest cleaning solutions, extractors for Seal of Approval status

Six carpet cleaning solutions and eight extractors recently earned the Carpet and Rug Institute’s Seal of Approval certification. Seal of Approval products meet the highest standards of effectiveness and quality in carpet cleaning, according to CRI. Products must pass a series of stringent tests based on strict criteria in order to receive the certification.


Shaw Learning Academy’s Floor Tech course includes training, mill tours

Shaw Learning Academy, the training arm of Shaw Industries, said that flooring professionals who completed the company’s Floor Tech class in the last three years have increased their sales volume by more than 20 percent. The course remains one of Shaw’s most popular offerings, according to the company.


Colin Powell gives keynote at first Hunter Douglas dealer event

Former Secretary of State Colin Powell gave a rousing keynote address on leadership and how it can be applied to everyday circumstances during Hunter Douglas’s inaugural International Alliance Conference. The July 25-27 event in Denver brought together dealers, fabricators and manufacturing partners, and included presentations on consumer habits, fashion trends and product rollouts.


Atlanta Rug Market to feature greener rugs, retailer awards

The Atlanta International Area Rug Market will be getting more green this year with the introduction of the AmericasMart Green Product Showcase. The showcase, running through the second day of the July 15-18 market, will include more than 300 products, including eco-friendly area rugs, furniture, apparel and gifts. In addition, more than 140 exhibitors are planning to exhibit their latest handmade and machine-made rugs, many of them environmentally sound.












Digital 2011 Radiant Flooring Guide Now Available

We have digitized this year’s edition of the Radiant Flooring Guide for your convenience; now you’ll have access to it 24/7 via the Internet.
BNP Media