Välinge reported that business in 2020 was a success thanks to continued momentum in its business—an expanded IP portfolio, an increase to licensee numbers, and the launch of its flooring brand Välinge Flooring.
“Although nothing about 2020 could be considered normal, it was very much business-as-usual for us when it came to innovation and R&D,” said Per Nygren, vice president, Välinge Innovation. “They appreciate our total commitment to developing technology that puts the highest quality products into the hands and under the feet of consumers worldwide.”
With more than 500 new patents granted in 2020, Välinge's patent portfolio now exceeds 3500 patents distributed across new materials, locking technologies for flooring, walls and furniture, and surface technologies, the company said. 2020 also saw Välinge growing its licensee family, adding more than 30 new partners over the year, bringin the total to more than 260.
The company also announced the launch of its own flooring products under the brand name ‘Välinge Flooring’ during the third quarter. The flooring is made made at the company's Sweden headquarters using their state-of-the-art, high-volume production facility. The first products are a collection of real wood floors that combine Välinge’s unique patented technologies — Woodura, 5G Dry waterproof fold-down system, and 5G Climb. The company said the launch creates a whole new category of floors, 'hardened wood flooring," which is durable and waterproof. The rollout initially focused on the U.S. market, and the company is planning expansion in other markets in 2021.
“Creating our own products is an exciting and natural progression for Välinge," Nygren said. "It’s not about competing with our licensees—quite the opposite, actually. This allows us to showcase our unique innovations—Woodura technology, the latest 5G Dry waterproof locking system, and 5G Climb. Creating a product that uses those technologies in harmony, giving customers the most innovative, high-performing, sustainable, and beautiful real wood floors, fit for a worry-free life in their home.”