I4F honors Harlan Stone, CEO of HMTX Industries with its 2020 “Valuable Ideas Award”

• Harlan Stone recognised for his outstanding contributions to the development of the global new materials product category during 2020
• Annual winner receives a donation of $50,000 to spend on new innovation development

HAMONT, BELGIUM – I4F®, a group of companies providing patents and technologies to the flooring industry, today announced the winner of its 2020 “Valuable Ideas Award” as Mr. Harlan Stone, CEO of HMTX Industries.  Mr. Stone received the I4F award in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the development of the global new materials product category during 2020.

Launched in 2019, I4F’s “Valuable Ideas Award” is an annual award that recognizes individuals making extraordinary contributions towards the continuous advancement and growth of the global flooring industry. To actively support this purpose, annual winners receive a donation of US$50,000, to be used on research and development activities.

John Rietveldt, I4F’s CEO, said, “When it comes to disruptive innovation and thinking out of the box, Harlan Stone is an industry icon!  We are extremely proud and honored to present Harlan with I4F’s 2020 Valuable Ideas Award in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the development of the global new materials product category during 2020.

Next generation technologies begin with an idea but it takes a vision, true grit, courage and endurance to make them a reality!  Harlan is one of life’s unique individuals able to make a difference and to see projects through from start to a successful finish.  On a personal note, I have absolutely no doubt, whatsoever, that Harlan will continue to inspire and generate incredible new, revolutionary products that will transform our great industry for many years to come!”

Harlan Stone, CEO of HMTX added, “I am both honored and humbled to receive the Valuable Ideas Award from I4F. Innovation sits at the heart of HMTX and my life’s work has always revolved around trying to do things that have not been done before. I feel this award is a recognition of that and the great partnerships that we have built over the decades. I am an unapologetic globalist, and to be recognized by a great European innovation champion for ideas sprouted in America and perfected in Asia means the world to me. Literally the whole world!”