Pergo, the leading manufacturer and marketer of laminate flooring, announced the opening of its Competence Center Garner, which will serve to showcase the brand’s products – as well as innovations in design and technology – to both existing and potential customers throughout North America.

Encompassing Pergo’s direct laminate production plant, as well as the R&D and Design Centers, the Garner location joins a growing global network of Pergo Competence Centers – including facilities in Barcelona, Berlin, Paris and Trelleborg, Sweden.

“We see our Competence Centers as interactive platforms from which we can advise, support and inspire our customers and distribution partners,” said Ralf Eisermann, CEO of the flooring division of Pfleiderer, Pergo’s parent company. “The opening of Competence Center Garner is the latest step in our global strategy to further strengthen the connection with our customers by highlighting product introductions and trend information – as well as offering training programs and personalized support.”

Competence Center Garner will serve as a resource for Pergo retailers, as well as architects and interior designers, located throughout North America. Pergo staff will be available to collaborate with customers to create individualized flooring solutions and to provide a comprehensive mix of technical and logistical assistance and general information about the entire Pergo product portfolio.

This year, Pergo will host a series of “Design Days” events in its newly-renovated R&D space within Competence Center Garner. Select specialty retailers will receive previews of new products, merchandising displays and cost-efficient manufacturing initiatives. An internal event for Pergo employees and sales staff took place in early June.

“With the opening of Competence Center Garner, we are making it clear to our partners that Pergo continues to set high standards for innovation and customer support within the laminate industry,” said George Kelley, CEO of Pergo North America. “It’s also an indicator that even in these difficult economic times, Pergo continues to invest in the future of its brand – not only in North America, but worldwide.”

For more information visit www.pergo.com or call 1-800-33-PERGO (1-800-337-3746).