Group Predicts 1.68B Meters in Laminate Sales

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, June 19, 2008--Escalating demand for laminate flooring from the residential, commercial and industrial sectors has ensured that the global laminate flooring market will reach 1.68 billion square meters by 2010 according UK's CMPi, organizers of Fit-Out Middle East trade show.

"Real estate projects are the principal driver of growth for the laminate flooring market which is driven by cost advantages over conventional flooring products made of stone, wood, ceramics, and vinyl," remarked CMPi Group Director Chris Fountain.

He noted that growth of laminate flooring was attributed in large measure to features such as superior performance of the product including its sturdiness, fade and stain resistance, low maintenance, as well as lower price and wide-ranging styles.

Manufacturers are increasingly developing a range of products that fulfill the requirements of the commercial sector.

Development of glue-free laminates, technological advancements, and enhanced moisture resistance are generating interest among end-users.

Enhancements in technologies such as embossed registration and texturing are offering consumers a cost-efficient way of attaining the looks of ceramics, tiles, and hardwood.

Europe is by far the largest market for laminate flooring worldwide, estimated at 617 million square meters in 2007.

The Middle East (Asia) is the second largest market followed by United States.

Europe, Asia and USA together account for over 88% of the global laminate flooring market.

"Laminate flooring is the latest trend in flooring, and one of the hottest among do-it-yourselfers (DIY)," Fountain said.

"The appearance of laminate flooring has become so authentic that it is often confused for real hardwood and the beauty of the product is its ease of maintenance, laminate flooring is one of the easiest floors to care for and maintain."

Fit-Out Middle East focuses on the final stages of construction and development.

Launching in November 2008, the show will run alongside the established Working Buildings Middle East exhibition and conference series, in order to deliver the right mix of senior buyers and decision makers from across the Middle East region and beyond.

Exhibitors will include contractors, shop-fitters, manufacturers and interior design agencies.