Introduction: Navigating Competitive Dynamics in the Resilient Flooring Market
Resilient flooring is undergoing a transformational phase, driven by the rapid uptake of technology, changing consumer expectations, and stricter regulations. The market leaders, such as OEMs, material suppliers, and sustainable manufacturers, are competing to take the lead in this new phase by embracing the latest developments in IoT-enabled solutions, smart home applications, and green building materials. These technologically driven differentiators not only enhance the product offerings but also reshape the competitive positioning. The companies are now increasingly prioritizing automation and smart integration to meet the needs of the discerning customer. These trends are also driving the regional growth opportunities, especially in North America and Asia-Pacific. These are the key trends that C-level executives and strategic planners need to understand as they look ahead to 2024 and 2025.
Competitive Positioning
Full-Suite Integrators
INTEGRATED FIBRE OPTIC SOLUTIONS INTEGRATED FIBRE OPTICS SOLUTIONS INTEGRATED FIBER OPTIC SOLUTION
| Vendor | Competitive Edge | Solution Focus | Regional Focus |
|---|
| Mohawk Industries |
Diverse product portfolio and innovation |
Resilient flooring solutions |
United States, global |
| Shaw Floors |
Strong brand recognition and sustainability focus |
Flooring products and solutions |
United States |
| Mannington Mills |
Heritage brand with quality craftsmanship |
Residential and commercial flooring |
United States |
Specialized Technology Vendors
The newest products from these companies offer new and improved technology and materials that enhance the performance and appearance of resilient flooring.
| Vendor | Competitive Edge | Solution Focus | Regional Focus |
|---|
| IVC Group |
Advanced manufacturing techniques |
Luxury vinyl tiles and planks |
Europe, global |
| Amtico International Co. Ltd |
Customizable design options |
Luxury vinyl flooring |
United Kingdom, global |
| Novalis |
Focus on eco-friendly materials |
Vinyl flooring solutions |
United States, global |
Infrastructure & Equipment Providers
These dealers supply essential materials and tools necessary for the installation and maintenance of resilient flooring.
| Vendor | Competitive Edge | Solution Focus | Regional Focus |
|---|
| Nora |
High-performance rubber flooring solutions |
Rubber flooring products |
Germany, global |
| Milliken and Company |
Innovative textile solutions for flooring |
Commercial flooring solutions |
United States, global |
| Unilin |
Patented locking systems for easy installation |
Laminate and vinyl flooring |
Belgium, global |
| NOX Corporation |
Focus on high-quality vinyl products |
Vinyl flooring solutions |
Global |
Emerging Players & Regional Champions
- Mannington Mills (US): This American company offers a wide range of luxury vinyl tiles and planks, with a focus on both design and on sustainable development. Recently it signed a contract with a large retail chain for exclusive flooring solutions. By promoting eco-friendly materials and bespoke designs, it is challenging the established suppliers.
- The French company Gerflor specializes in resilient flooring, with a strong focus on sports and health applications. Gerflor has recently supplied resilient flooring solutions for a number of hospitals in Europe, complementing the work of established suppliers with products that meet the most stringent health and safety requirements.
- Forbo - Forbo is a manufacturer of high-quality linoleum and linoleum floors, but has also recently launched a range of bio-based floor coverings. This move makes them a competitor to the traditional linoleum industry, mainly because they are able to appeal to the consciousness of consumers who are concerned about the environment.
- Tarkett, France: The company specializes in the development of flooring solutions which combine digital technology for the benefit of the end-user. The recent partnership with a technology company to develop smart flooring solutions is a challenge to the established suppliers. It is introducing the IoT into the flooring market.
Regional Trends: In 2023, the resilient flooring market, especially in North America and Europe, will see a strong trend towards eco-friendliness and sustainable materials. Luxury vinyl tiles, which combine good looks with high wear resistance, will also be in high demand. In urban areas, there is a growing interest in smart flooring, which can be connected to home automation systems.
Collaborations & M&A Movements
- The two companies have formed a partnership to develop a range of sustainable resilient flooring solutions, with the objective of strengthening their position in the green flooring sector.
- Armstrong Flooring has acquired a minority interest in a company which develops new flooring technology in order to strengthen its product range and its market share in the high-tech flooring sector.
- Tarkett and Interface have entered into a joint venture to develop a new line of flooring products, the resurgence of which is based on the two companies’ respective strengths in design and sustainable development.
Competitive Summary Table
| Capability | Leading Players | Remarks |
|---|
| Sustainability |
Shaw Industries, Armstrong Flooring |
A strong and effective program of re-cycling and the use of post-consumer materials in its products has reduced waste to a minimum. Also, a line of resilient flooring products based on biodegradable and rapidly renewable resources demonstrates its commitment to the environment. |
| Design Innovation |
Mohawk Industries, Tarkett |
It is a great investment that Mohawk Industries has made in the design of its products, and this makes it possible to meet the preferences of its customers. Tarkett has also benefited from the evolution of printing techniques to offer a high degree of realism in the imitation of wood and stone. This is very attractive for consumers who are aware of design. |
| Durability |
Gerflor, Forbo Flooring |
The products of Gerflor are known for their resistance to abrasion, and they are thus suitable for the most heavily traversed places. In addition, Forbo has developed a special surface treatment which increases the resistance to scratches, thus ensuring a long duration of the floor. |
| Health and Safety |
Mannington Mills, Interface |
The Mannington Mills Company is dedicated to the manufacture of floors free from harmful chemicals that contribute to improved indoor air quality. The flooring company Interface has been a pioneer in the use of materials that reduce CO2 emissions. |
| Ease of Installation |
Karndean Designflooring, Vinyl Flooring Solutions |
Installing Karndean DesignFlooring is simple, both for professionals and for amateurs. Installing Karndean DesignFlooring is easy. The product is light and easy to handle, which means that the installation costs are reduced. |
Conclusion: Navigating Resilience in Flooring Dynamics
The resilient flooring market in 2023 will be characterized by intense competition and considerable fragmentation, with both established and new players competing for market share. Regional trends are driving demand for sustainable and flexible flooring solutions, which is forcing manufacturers to rethink and reposition their products. Brands with strong heritages are combining brand equity with the latest digital capabilities, such as AI and automation, to enhance operational efficiency and customer engagement. While new players are focusing on sustainability and design flexibility to win the hearts and minds of eco-conscious consumers. In the years ahead, those who can combine a strong brand with the latest digital capabilities, such as AI and automation, and commit to sustainable practices, will be the winners. In this highly competitive environment, it is essential that manufacturers strategically align their capabilities with market demand.
