The international flooring industry is in mourning following the death of Stéphane Colle. The founder and chairman of the Belgotex Group and driving force behind Associated Weavers and Lano, among others, passed away in South Africa after a courageous battle with cancer. He was 66 years old.
© Associated Weavers
With the passing of Stéphane Colle, the sector loses an "entrepreneur through and through" and a visionary who shaped the global flooring market for decades. Colle, husband of Ann De Clerck (daughter of Beaulieu founder Roger De Clerck), was known for his extraordinary work ethic, his no-nonsense mentality, and his immense passion for the trade.
From West Flanders to South Africa
Colle's entrepreneurial story took a decisive turn in 1983. As a newlywed, he was sent to South Africa by his father-in-law, Roger De Clerck, to look after Beaulieu's interests in KwaZulu-Natal. What began as overseeing a local factory grew under his leadership into a global empire.
Through the Belgotex Group, Colle built an impressive international presence, with production sites in Brazil, South Africa, Belgium, and France, and a distribution network spanning the entire world. Most recently, in 2025, he further expanded his influence in the sector with the acquisition of the Belgian carpet manufacturer Lano.
Visionary behind the scenes
Although Colle was sometimes described as reserved in the media, insiders knew him as a warm, sincere personality who led his companies with a strong sense of family. He did not like to step into the spotlight, but was a tireless "think tank" behind the scenes. His passion for the profession was literally boundless; he flew all over the world to remain involved in all his activities as a hands-on investor.
In an emotional tribute, Associated Weavers characterizes their founder as a "remarkable person" who knew how to combine business success with human warmth. "He was a true floor man through and through and an inspiration to many. He will be greatly missed."
Stéphane Colle's estate
leaves behind a wife, three children, and grandchildren. His eldest son, Edward, followed in his father's footsteps within the company in South Africa years ago. In addition to his own Belgotex Group, Colle and his wife still held a substantial stake of more than 20 percent in the Beaulieu International Group (BIG).
With him, the sector loses one of its most prominent leaders, whose influence will continue to be felt in the world of textile floor coverings for generations to come.
Our thoughts go out to the family, friends, and colleagues of Stéphane Colle.
Source: LinkedIn.
