Are trade events a thing of the past? During the pandemic, you might have thought so. The third edition of Flanders Flooring Days however proves you wrong and confirms that personal contact remains key in the flooring industry. During this international event, ties are forged in the traditional way. Visiting a showroom, an appointment on the exhibition floor of The Hub in Kortrijk Xpo or joining a network dinner: it's a lot more interesting than a phone call, an online meeting or browsing each other's website.
In 2022, Flanders Flooring Days was born to organise a trade event where professionals in the flooring industry could meet despite the pandemic. It became a smashing success, according to the organisation. Customers were welcomed to the showrooms and production facilities of market leaders in the field. Within a 25- kilometre radius, more than ten resounding names in the industry participated. Today, the founding partners continue to take centre stage at the event. Associated Weavers Europe, Balta, Beaulieu International Group, Belysse, Lano, Unilin Flooring and US Floors - Coretec take Flanders Flooring Days to the next level.
That concept hits home: from today, May 13, you can visit 52 leading companies during 3 days. 14 in their showrooms and 38 participants in The Hub in Kortrijk Xpo. It includes a host of international players, because as of this year, European manufacturers are also welcome to join. "Flanders Flooring Days is where innovation meets opportunity," Marc Dessein, CEO of Balta Home, explains. "It's not just a fair; it's a regional platform to showcase our cutting-edge designs, sustainable practices, and commitment to quality craftsmanship and innovation worldwide. This event is an excellent tribune in forging partnerships, fostering industry connections, and staying ahead in an ever-evolving market. For Balta, it's not just about attending; it's about shaping the future of rugs and showing the world the capabilities of Flanders know-how."
A people business
The event has become the reference in the European flooring industry. You will meet everyone who matters in soft and hard flooring, and all related products. For the third time, Flanders Flooring Days is the fastest and most efficient way to establish contacts and discover new products. "Despite temporary economical headwinds, the flooring industry keeps investing for the long-term," Joe Lano, CEO of LANO, says. "In its third year, the event has already become a tradition and remains a unique way to show our production capabilities and product innovation to our customers. The flooring business is a people business, and we are happy to welcome all of you to our region, our showroom and our factory".
The secret ingredient? The Flemish focus on the Burgundian life. On the fringes of the event, participants take time for a delicious dinner or a cultural trip to Kortrijk, Ghent or Bruges, and to get to know their customers better, welcoming each other in their own showrooms. As Ruben Desmet, President Flooring – Unilin, states it: "It's like inviting friends in your home versus in a restaurant." This hospitality strengthens the bonds forged during Flanders Flooring Days. And it is certainly a factor that attracts visitors, because after all, you just can't dine online.
Flanders Flooring Days takes place from May 13 until May 16, 2024. Next year, the event is hosted from June 2 until June 5.
More information:
Flanders Flooring Days
www.flandersflooringdays.com