A comparison of this year’s results with those of our 2001 and 2002 laminate surveys showed a rather stable, growth-oriented trend for the product segment. If anything, exclusive NFT research data compiled over the past three years paints a portrait of a maturing product category that, while no longer posting the exponential growth of its early years in the U.S. marketplace, has firmly established its position in the North American flooring industry.
The overwhelming majority of dealers, specifically 80 percent, still consider laminate floor covering a profitable alternative to ceramic, wood and vinyl products. However, that majority has diminished slightly. In the 2002 and 2001 editions of our laminate study, 82 percent regarded the product to be a profitable alternative.