Almelo, The Netherlands, January 11, 2007--FieldTurf Tarkett, an international supplier of synthetic turf systems for sport applications, and TenCate are forming a global strategic alliance. TenCate, is a global supplier of grass fibers and owns patents for future integrated turf systems, according to a release.
The result of this partnership for TenCate is increased market access and is expected to have an immediate positive impact on market share.
Loek de Vries, CEO of TenCate, stated: "This alliance is part of the implementation of our strategy to put more emphasis on the total performance of the system, which is also in the benefit of end users. We want to expand our business with quality sensitive partners with direct market access at the level of systems. Partnerships with leading companies like FieldTurf Tarkett will put the awareness in the market place for performance at a higher level. It will enhance the value of turf systems supplied to end users."
FieldTurf is the result of years of research-evident in the patented FieldTurf infill mix of silica sand and cryogenic rubber and patented layering process that deliver a system that emulates natural grass. Additional benefits are found in improved player safety, reduced maintenance costs and flexibility for conversion--allowing stadium managers to quickly change the field from one sport to another or to easily host a variety of sporting events, concerts and other special events directly on top of the FieldTurf surface.
Over the past few years, the quality and performance of FieldTurf's patented system has resulted in more than 2100 installations in more than 40 countries. Total annual worldwide sales of FieldTurf Tarkett amount to approximately $240 million.
"This alliance will help both companies complete their innovative and proprietary R&D projects more efficiently," said John Gilman, president of FieldTurf Tarkett. "The business opportunities that lie beyond sports surfacing are enormous."
The supply agreement relates primarily to TenCate Thiolon monofilament and fibrillated fibers and backing. Also TenCate will in the future supply other components like infill and sub-base products which can be linked to the system approach. In the last 20 years, Thiolon fibers have been used in thousands of fields worldwide. More than 200 million square meters of Thiolon fiber have been installed-more than all other synthetic fiber manufacturers combined.
"Our industry has been growing rapidly as athletes, facilities managers, and others see the advantages that artificial turf can provide," said Heard Smith, group director of TenCate Grass. "This alliance with FieldTurf Tarkett allows us to share knowledge and speed the development of new technology for the marketplace. The information transfer between our organizations is already showing results with product improvements and even better customer service. In the past, we have partnered with FieldTurf Tarkett for many successful field installations. Now we are aligned with this great company in a way that can benefit the entire turf industry."
