Rich in over 120 years’ experience, the story of Tarkett merges with the history of the flooring industry through many of the finest brands that have helped to shape flooring from the past century until today.
Like all enduring brands, Tarkett is grounded in its people, their expertise and ambition. From the Group’s early entrepreneurs who began parquet in Sweden, linoleum in Canada to felt making in France and textiles in Eastern Europe, the Group has grown to incorporate industry leaders such as Allibert, Azrock, Domco, FieldTurf, Johnsonite, Sintelon, Sommer, Tarkett.
The pioneers of these companies have instilled many of the values which continue in the Group today. Respectful – of the needs of customers and the environment; Professional – with in-depth expertise and reliability; Resourceful – through the empowerment and accountability of its people.
Tarkett’s people, from a diversity of backgrounds, have been constantly innovating since the Group’s early days across materials, technologies and design, to make people’s lives safer, more comfortable, more productive - inspiring them through the colour, pattern and texture in the places where they work, live or play.
1942 – introduction of 3 layer hardwood flooring, minimizing hardwood use to protect forests
1952 – invention of first vinyl flooring offering durability and a wider choice in decoration for interiors
1957 – recycling of vinyl tile to reduce waste in landfills
1966 – development of vinyl wall coverings for better interior hygiene
1975 – launch of PUR surface treatment minimizing water and detergent for easier maintenance
1978 – first loose lay flooring eliminating adhesives for better indoor air quality
1980 – product life-cycle cost assessments for better understanding of overall economic impact
1994 – launch of artificial turf reducing injuries for athletes, water and pesticides use in upkeep
1996 – rubber products made from post-consumer tires
2003 – post installation recycling in North America to reduce landfill waste
2006 – new surface treatment for linoleum to minimize water and detergent consumption
Headquartered in Nanterre, France, Tarkett is owned by two shareholders – the Deconinck family (heirs of the Allibert family) and active in the Group for many generations and private equity investor Kohlberg, Kravis & Roberts since January 2007.
> Our history step by step
