The gross domestic product (GDP) surged at a 7.2 percent annual rate in the July-September period the Commerce Department has reported, marking the steepest climb since the first quarter of 1984 and more than double the second quarter's 3.3 percent rate.

Craig Lampe, Wanke Cascade vice president of sales and marketing, has announced his retirement, effective Nov. 1, after 33 years in the flooring industry.

Congoleum Corp. has finalized documents relating to its pre-packaged Chapter 11 plan of reorganization and mailed them to asbestos personal injury claimants and other parties in interest.

Bois Chamois has unveiled its antiqued hardwood flooring, featuring surface irregularities and softly worn edges without repetitions.

The market for existing single-family homes rose again in September and set a third consecutive monthly record, according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR).

Metroflor encourages retailers to "Go Beyond Ceramic" with a new retailer promotion for Solidity, its popular new line of resilient ceramic tile.

Vincent Ferrante Jr., who worked as a carpet installer for his father's Travis-based Ideal Flooring Contractors business, died on the Staten Island ferry that crashed into a concrete pier Oct. 15.

Flexible Foam Products Inc., a member of the plastics division of Ohio Decorative Products (Ohio Dec), has announced the expansion of its national polyurethane foam carpet cushion operations by adding a new facility in northeastern Pennsylvania.

Surfaces 2004 will let floor covering professionals "come and be heard" at the new Town Hall, 7:30 to 9 a.m. Jan. 28 at the Venetian Hotel.

Columbia Flooring has reached an agreement with North Pacific Group (Nor Pac) to purchase its ownership interest in Melbourne, Ark.-based Century Flooring, a manufacturer of prefinished solid hardwood flooring.