Clearwater, Fla.—NALFA, the North American Laminate Flooring Association, gathered here this week for its annual fall meeting and to celebrate the association’s 25th anniversary.
Representatives from Classen Group; Kaindl Flooring GmbH; Kronospan USA; Mannington Mills, Inc.; Mohawk Industries; Shaw Industries Group, Inc.; Swiss Krono USA; Torlys, Inc.; Foam Products Corporation; Framerica Corporation; MP Global Products; Pak-Lite, Inc.; Schattdecor; SELIT North America Inc.; Versatrim, Inc.; Zamma Corporation; Arauco NA; Arclin USA Inc.; Floor & Decor; and NC State University attended the meetings.
At the annual NALFA fall meeting, the association said it welcomed former participants who played integral roles during the 25 year history: Duane Reimer (MP Global retiree), Jack Boesch (MP Global retiree) and Jane Winters (Unilin/Mohawk retiree).
According to NALFA, the group met over the course of three days and discussed a wide range of topics to further the laminate category. Dr. Robert Dietz of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) gave a virtual presentation on housing statistics and short-term economic predictions. Designer John Cialone of Tom Stringer Design Partners joined with a presentation on design trends and positive impacts.
On Wednesday evening, NALFA hosted its traditional reception and dinner for the members and guests. As part of the celebration, Barbara June, the current president of NALFA, awarded the NALFA President’s Award for the second time in the association’s 25 year history to Dennis Bradway of Mannington Mills, Inc.
Bradway has been a part of NALFA from the beginning, each year contributing significantly to NALFA’s efforts, especially on the Technical Committee. NALFA said Bradway’s expertise in standardization of test methods, organizing inter-laboratory studies and participating in ISO and ANSI meetings has provided great benefit. Honoring NALFA’s founder, Bill Dearing, the award has been renamed as the Bill Dearing Memorial President’s Award.
“Dennis has been the constant for NALFA for many years,” June said. “His dedication to NALFA is exemplary and we are grateful for his service. Thank you Dennis.”
Joe Bhatia, president and CEO of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), said he looks forward to many more years of continued success and partnership with NALFA. “It is our pleasure to acknowledge NALFA’s 25th anniversary and to congratulate you on its numerous achievements,” Bhatia said. “Thank you for your efforts in support of ANSI and the standardization community. We look forward to many more years of continued success and partnership.”