Dalton – Lexmark Carpet Mills, a leading manufacturer of hospitality carpets, has created a new line of residential products that will be introduced at Surfaces 2012. The new collection will include 18 styles crafted of Lexmark’s Primus solution-dyed PET yarn.
The 18 products in the Lexmark residential collection contain LCLs, enhanced loops, multi-tone and solid-color cut piles. Following today’s emerging color palettes, the residential color lines will feature exclusively mid-tones: pastels, grays, soft blues and greens, and a range of beige shades. The products will be offered on a large 24-slot showroom display, and deckboards will also be available. The showroom display and sample cards feature room scenes, attractive graphics, and 14” x 24” swatches.
“We saw an opportunity in retail for stylish, mid-range PET carpet styles, products at price points that will maximize retailers’ profit margins” says Lexmark CEO Todd White. “We believe our history and expertise in the hospitality market will give us an advantage in appealing to consumers looking for fashionable carpet that will perform well. Our sophisticated tufting equipment, including ColorTec and ColorTuft machines, allows us to create looks not often seen at retail.”
Ed Williams, president of residential, notes the company conducted extensive market research to determine the best products and price points. “We think we’ve developed an ideal mix of styles that will appeal to a broad segment of consumers,” Williams says. “We’re going to support our new line with the personalized and experienced customer service Lexmark has traditionally offered and provide additional training specific to retail.” Williams adds the company is also currently building a residential sales force to support the new residential line.
White added that the new Lexmark collection lays the groundwork for future growth in the retail sector.