I4F signs agreement for unique grout patents with Quickstyle

• I4F enters exclusive patent partnership with Quickstyle Industries for its grout technologies 
• Unique grout technology with protected grout line on PVC, SPC and WPC tiles and planks 
•  Immediately available via an I4F License

HAMONT, BELGIUM – I4F, a group of companies providing patents and technologies to the flooring industry, today announced that it has entered into an exclusive patent partnership with Quickstyle Industries, giving I4F the sole licensing rights for Quickstyle’s grout patent family in all major markets worldwide, including the United States, Europe and Asia/Pacific.

Quickstyle Industries’ innovative grout line technology is unique in offering flooring and wall panels with integrated grout lines that are highly realistic and aesthetically pleasing, for which a number of U.S. patents as well as other patents abroad have been awarded. This one-of-a-kind technology focuses on rigid cores with uniquely-profiled mechanical joining systems combined with top layers of PVC or PVC decorative films and wear layer films. Its construction makes it highly durable and shields the grout lines from water-induced inconveniences, like mold. This enables easy maintenance and means that, over time, grout lines look better than original ceramic equivalents, as are more resilient to stains.

This new partnership means that all new licenses for this technology may only be obtained via I4F, with the exception of Canada, where Quickstyle will continue to license its patents directly. Both companies will collaborate to maximize worldwide awareness of this innovation as well as to further develop the technology.

Commenting on the new patent partnership, Mike Alfieri, Quickstyle’s executive vice president, said, “We selected I4F to be the exclusive licensor for our unique grout patent family as we believe they are the best and most knowledgable partner in the industry to represent us. Our partnership is designed to protect as well as help evolve further these technologies around the world.”

John Rietveldt, I4F’s CEO, adds, “We are delighted to partner with Quickstyle on this innovative grout technology that is now immediately available via an I4F license. This unique grout is the latest addition to our materials and panel composition patent cluster that only includes the most meaningful and cutting-edge innovations out there today! We believe Quickstyle’s grout technologies will have a major impact on the market. Which end-user wouldn’t want easy to install, cleaner, mold-free flooring or wall coverings that gives them the genuine look and feel of ceramics.”