It is a situation that may leave floor covering retailers particularly vulnerable, given the amount of carpeting made using petrochemicals. The economy has had a far-reaching effect on the flooring industry. Manufacturers have raised prices, with the increases passed along to retailers and consumers. Lorberbaum acknowledged that retailers are forced to come to terms with this new financial landscape. Still, he stressed that the picture is not bleak. "I believe we will all be able to adapt to this new reality," he said. "Consumers are still buying and remodeling. And they're willing to pay more for products that enhance their lifestyles."
Mohawk said it has also inked a deal with Wear-Dated, the residential fiber arm of Solutia. An initial launch of 80 carpets - including both new and revamped styles - incorporates the fiber. In an alliance involving Mohawk, Wear-Dated and 3M, the Wear-Dated carpets will also carry 3M's Scotchgard Advanced Repel stain protection.