i4F enters into multifaceted strategic partnership with Amorim

– i4F to represent and exclusively license Amorim’s sustainable rigid bio-cork composite IP

– Amorim signs license agreements for i4F’s drop-lock and digital printing technologies

– Amorim acquires Hymmen Jupiter digital printing line with DLE plus

TURNHOUT, BELGIUM – i4F®, a group of companies providing patents and technologies to the flooring industry, today announced that it has signed multiple agreements with Amorim, including a strategic patent partnership and two license agreements. Through the patent partnership, i4F has secured exclusive licensing rights to Amorim’s sustainable rigid bio-cork composite patent portfolio and will represent Amorim on IP related matters associated with those technologies. Simultaneously, Amorim has signed two license agreements, covering i4F’s drop-lock and digital printing technologies. Amorim has also acquired a Jupiter digital printing line with DLE plus from Hymmen, delivering direct-on-board digitally printed decors and digitally embossed-in-register lacquer structures.

Amorim’s patented, sustainable rigid bio-cork composite is 100% plastic and PVC free. The bio-cork core consists of a matrix material comprising cork particles as well as other bio and recycled materials. End products will boast an exceptionally low – to negative carbon footprint, all the while delivering performance comparable to, or even surpassing that of traditional rigid-core products.

Based in Portugal, Amorim is the world’s largest producer of cork-based products and market leader in the production of versatile, high quality cork flooring and wall decorations, with strong sustainability credentials. The introduction of i4F’s drop-lock will begin at their facility early 2024.

Fernando Melo, CEO of Amorim Cork Flooring, says, “At Amorim, our mission is to provide sustainable and innovative cork solutions that enhance people’s lives while promoting environmental stewardship. Teaming up with i4F aligns seamlessly with these values, facilitating broader access to our magic formula for sustainable cork flooring. This collaboration not only streamlines the installation process for our products but also allows for limitless designs digitally printed onto our cork products, improving overall aesthetics.”

Commenting on the new partnership, i4F CEO, John Rietveldt, adds, “This new partnership with Amorim is significant in so many ways! As we embark on this exciting journey together, the opportunities are endless. We are proud to represent Amorim’s unwavering commitment to fortifying sustainable cork-based materials and practices.”

Used by the world’s biggest flooring manufacturers, on billions of square feet of flooring each year, i4F drop-lock technologies deliver the world’s best and easiest water-resistant flooring installation systems. 30% faster to install than traditional angle/angle, i4F drop-lock technologies are suitable for existing high-speed production. They also eliminate the need for inserts meaning faster installation, lower costs, fewer materials and a lower carbon footprint. 

Digital printing is poised to play a pivotal role in the future of floor and wall products, offering endless design possibilities and embossing-in-register flexibility. This capability not only enables swifter responses to market demands but also provides an enhanced means of leading in design and decor.