Starline Associates, headquartered in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., is the developer of Silent Blue laminate underlayment, Duravel 3-in-1 premium moisture barrier, Star Silver 3mm metallic film and foam underlayment, as well as Duravel Premium Laminate Flooring. The company also creates and private labels underlayment for manufacturers and distributors in addition to cork floating floors, tiles and cork underlayment.

Starline was founded six years ago as an independent broker to the trade initially supplying cork floors and underlayment on a national scale. Within months its offerings were expanded to laminate floors and 2-in-1 foam/film pad. Today, customized pads are the growing trend. Starline develops various thicknesses, roll sizes and overlaps with and without self stick adhesive on full container orders direct from the factory to the floor covering retailer, distributor and floating floor manufacturer’s door.

Starline offers a unique savings proposition to floor covering retailers in 45 states across the U.S. while seeking new ways for dealers to increase their profitability. Offering bulk purchasing from pallets to containers is one way. Most products have three to four price levels based on quantities ordered.

The company also helps dealers increase their profitability in the way it goes to market. For example, using alternatives to an outside sales force. “You do not need a manufacturer’s rep in the channel; this increases cost,” said Ray Rodriguez, president. “Outside salespeople are better utilized for product knowledge and support. Dealers may need product training but not a salesperson to visit them.” He added that once a dealer places the initial order, the additional expense of a representative on a commodity product like underlayment is unnecessary.

Starline’s systems are not all that differentiates it from competitors. People, values, vision and an ability to quickly adapt to change are all equally as important to be a unique organization.

Another unique savings opportunity

Stocking dealers can receive $50 off each pallet of underlayment on their next order simply by calling or e-mailing Starline and mentioning the Floor Covering News Retailer’s Guide to Selling Laminate Flooring. Container buyers can receive $250 off their next purchase.

In addition, Starline welcomes new retailers with a similar savings promotion along with a free Underlayment Sample Package by mentioning FloorBiz.com and the FCNews guide. Call 866.752.6548 or e-mail: Samples@StarlineUSA.com. This special offer ends Dec. 15.