Maryland Heights, Mo.— Quick-Step may be a
new laminate brand within the industry, but the fact is, the company’s floors
have been available in the U.S. for many years and its patented glueless
technology is not only one of the world’s most popular, but is being
incorporated in numerous products sold and marketed throughout the country.
Quick-Step is the U.S. division of Unilin Decor, maker of the Uniclic mechanical
locking system which is already used by a wide variety of manufacturers
including BHK of America, Columbia Flooring, Shaw Industries and Witex.
Now with a domestic business unit established
through Quick-Step, and a national distribution network, the company is reaching
out to specialty flooring dealers with its own offerings. Ken Peden, vice
president of sales and marketing, said the company only “wants to do business
with specialty retailers. They are the only ones who can provide the kind of
dedicated customer service we want for our products.” As part of its American
venture kick off, the company has introduced Perspective, a collection of 10
realistic wood patterns in long strip form featuring the Uniclic system.
“It’s a sensational innovation,” Peden noted. Perspective’s unique
character is enhanced by a subtle V-groove that is created when each long strip
panel is clicked together. The long sides of the planks are slanted and covered
with a decorative layer. “For the first time, this results in an elegant but
practical laminate floor that combines all the advantages of the Uniclic system
with the appearance of a real plank floor.” He noted the 54-1/4X6-1/6-in.
planks also have a new dimension “so the long panels look very ordinary.”
The initial 10 designs in the Perspective collection are Harvest Oak, Antique
Oak, Natural Varnished Maple, Dark Varnished Maple, Natural Varnished Cherry,
Dark Varnished Cherry, Varnished Beech, Steamed Beech, Oiled Oak and Varnished
Oak. For more information on Quick-Step’s products or distributors, call
314/439-0266. Werner H. Braun, president, Carpet & Rug Institute
