Beginning with DOMOTEX 2012 (14¿17 January), the organizers will designate a product sector of the fair that will carry the overall theme for that year. Susanne Klaproth, DOMOTEX Project Director at Deutsche Messe AG, said, "DOMOTEX attracts a diverse audience. Our goal is to address these different groups of decision-makers in a more individual way. We begin in 2012 with the "Wood Flooring Summit", which will focus on laminate flooring, parquet flooring and other types of wood flooring. As the world's leading floor coverings trade fair, DOMOTEX is the ideal place for the laminate and parquet flooring industry to join forces at an international level and demonstrate the tremendous variety and visual appeal of today's wood flooring products."

Wood Flooring Summit will consist of a spacious exhibition area that hosts exhibiting companies as well as attractive information displays and special event spaces. "With this layout we create the foundation for innovation, information and inspiration," explained Klaproth, "and spotlight the entire spectrum of laminate and parquet flooring with a high-profile and multi-facetted presentation."

The centerpiece of the Wood Flooring Summit is a special presentation area devoted to "Innovation", where exhibitors will display new products that emphasize to visitors the laminate and parquet flooring industry's remarkable capacity for innovation. Visitors may then conduct follow-up discussions at exhibits surrounding the presentation area.

Another cornerstone is the centrally located lecture "Forum", where industry experts will discuss the latest developments in retailing, product design and technology. A separate "Campus" display area will host presentations by academic institutions, industry associations and research organizations that examine current issues and future trends. An area dedicated to industry suppliers will give visitors a behind-the-scenes look at the development and manufacture of wood-based floor coverings, while a spacious lounge area offers a comfortable setting where visitors and exhibitors may talk informally. Rounding out the program is the "Night of Wood Flooring", a social event that will foster networking and matchmaking in a relaxing atmosphere.

The Wood Flooring Summit concept was developed in consultation with industry associations and leading companies. Klaproth said the response has been overwhelmingly positive, adding, "We are delighted to have the support of the Association of European Producers of Laminate Flooring (EPLF) as well as the active involvement of other industry organizations. Together we are creating an international platform at DOMOTEX 2012 that will showcase the beauty, diversity and quality of laminate and wood floorings."