It could go either way is the general sentiment of those participating in an informal survey that included every level of the floor covering industry. While optimism abounds, many who spoke to NFT also said there are unsettling questions about the coming year. Most involve economics and the supply pipeline. The consensus in the flooring business is that anticipation, adaptability and good luck will determine who triumphs and who falters over the next 12 months.
A good measure of the volatile environment could be seen in some of the strategic alliances forged in the latter part of 2005. Mohawk's exclusive arrangement with 3M for an upgraded variety of Scotchgard, Tarkett's acquisition of Johnsonite and Shaw's decision to buy three nylon fiber plants from Honeywell are just a few of the major deals aimed at strengthening an established brand or, in the case of Shaw, ensuring a steady pipeline of raw material.