Second edition Flanders Flooring Days has started

10 strong players give insider's view on future of carpet and flooring industry

The second edition of Flanders Flooring Days (FFD) has started. During this four-day event, 10 leading companies from the carpet and flooring industry invite the world for a unique look behind the scenes. From 22 to 25 May, visitors will discover the production process, innovations and future plans of some of the world authorities from this industry in our region in a radius of barely 25 kilometres.

The first edition of Flanders Flooring Days in 2022 was very successful and lured hundreds of industry players. Visitors discovered a maximum of innovations in a minimum of time. The success makes this second edition self-evident. 

Alive and kicking 

FFD goes beyond just a showcase of products and innovations. The event also showcases the drive and ambition of this sector. 

Together, the companies behind FFD account for 17,000 jobs worldwide, have 300 vacancies and are investing more than €300 million in their businesses over the next two years. 

These investments focus on energy saving, renewable resources and training, among others. 

- This year, for instance, Unilin is investing EUR 20 million in increased production capacity for Luxury Vinyl Tiles. Among other things, there will be a brand new line that uses much less energy. 
- Condor Group, one of FFD's new partners, uses recycled plastics from the ocean, as does Associated Weavers. "Besides the direct benefit of CO2 reduction, there is also a social impact of beach clean-ups in local communities," says Jan Hoekman jr, board member at Condor Group. 
- The companies also pay a lot of attention to training and employee development. Peter Desmet, CEO Mc Three: "We invest in our people and give them specific training. This also gives them the opportunity to grow." 

Traditions come together 

At Flanders Flooring Days, two traditions of this region merge: the deep-rooted expertise and passion for the carpet and flooring industry and Flemish hospitality. "It's like inviting someone into your home instead of to a restaurant" barrel Ruben Desmet of co-initiator Unilin summed up the concept. 

FFD is thus a kind of trade fair, but at the companies themselves. Because where better to discover everything than in their flagship showrooms? And where can you see so much expertise within a stone's throw of each other? Nowhere better than in Flanders.