I4F, a group of companies providing patents and technologies to the flooring industry, has teamed up with Amorim, a Portugal-based producer of cork-based products, on a strategic patent partnership and two license agreements.
Through the patent partnership, i4F has secured exclusive licensing rights to Amorim’s sustainable rigid bio-cork composite patent portfolio and will represent Amorim on IP related matters associated with those technologies. Simultaneously, Amorim has signed two license agreements, covering i4F’s drop-lock and digital printing technologies. Amorim has also acquired a Jupiter digital printing line with DLE plus from Hymmen, delivering direct-on-board digitally printed decors and digitally embossed-in-register lacquer structures. The introduction of i4F’s drop-lock will begin at their facility early 2024.
Amorim’s patented, sustainable rigid bio-cork composite is 100% plastic and PVC free. The bio-cork core consists of a matrix material comprising cork particles as well as other bio and recycled materials. End products will boast an exceptionally low to negative carbon footprint, all the while delivering performance comparable to, or even surpassing that of traditional rigid-core products.
"At Amorim, our mission is to provide sustainable and innovative cork solutions that enhance people’s lives while promoting environmental stewardship," said Amorim CEO Fernando Melo. "Teaming up with i4F aligns seamlessly with these values, facilitating broader access to our magic formula for sustainable cork flooring. This collaboration not only streamlines the installation process for our products but also allows for limitless designs digitally printed onto our cork products, improving overall aesthetics.”
I4F drop-lock technologies deliver the world’s best and easiest water-resistant flooring installation systems. 30% faster to install than traditional angle/angle, i4F drop-lock technologies are suitable for existing high-speed production. They also eliminate the need for inserts meaning faster installation, lower costs, fewer materials and a lower carbon footprint. Digital printing is poised to play a pivotal role in the future of floor and wall products, offering endless design possibilities and embossing-in-register flexibility. This capability not only enables swifter responses to market demands but also provides an enhanced means of leading in design and decor.
