Alloc-the originator of the glueless, mechanical locking system for laminate flooring-has certainly had a busy year. With new products, growing distribution, an important addition to the company's web presence and the opening of increased warehouse space, Alloc continues to invest in innovations with excellent results.

"A true leader is always seeking ways to improve," explains Claes Wennerth, president of Alloc. "We are constantly seeking new ways to serve our customers and build our presence in the marketplace."

A cornerstone of Alloc's year of innovations is its E-Learning web site. This interactive on-line training course, created exclusively for the Alloc sales network, enables distributors and retailers to access product training and testing around the clock, from the convenience of their offices or homes. Alloc is committed to being a learning company, and this new site is a significant component of that commitment.

"We strongly believe knowledge is power," states Wennerth. "Alloc E-Learning is a significant way to not only share knowledge, but engrain it into the sales process through training and testing."

Additionally, Alloc will soon complete a 75,000 square foot expansion of its warehouse space at its Racine, Wis. headquarters. This addition will not only allow for better inventory control, but will also free space in the plant for increased production capacity long term. As the laminate category grows, Alloc is strategizing to best accommodate increased manufacturing demands. This new facility is a pivotal step in the company's future growth.

Of course, at the crux of Alloc's growth are the innovative, beautifully designed new products that have generated increased demand. Notably, Alloc's Woodstrip and Microbevel product lines have sparked lots of attention in '05. Both lines feature unique, real wood detailing reflective of Alloc's advanced manufacturing technology. Woodstrip offers laminate planks in extra long sizes, previously only available in wood flooring. Microbevel, as the name suggests, features slightly beveled edges for added depth and interest for a true wood appearance.

"New products are the gateway to our future," says Wennerth. "We want the quality of our relationships with our customers and the quality of marketing, distribution and training programs to be equal to our innovative products."

All Alloc product lines may be viewed at www.alloc.com.