Sampling

We decided long ago that, if we really were going to set the industry standard for sustainability, we would have to examine everything we do in light of its impact on the environment. In taking a broader look at our environmental footprint, we realized that we could significantly reduce our footprint if we could come up with new alternatives to the traditional product sample. Yes, we know that carpet samples are small items, but a company as large as ours produces so many carpet samples that any reduction in their number can translate into real benefits for the planet. As a result, we have developed remarkable innovations in carpet sampling that include new technologies, new tools, and new approaches to carpet design and sales. Now, even in this arena, we are leading the industry with our sustainability innovations.

• Digital Simulations – We are drastically reducing the number of actual carpet samples sent out to our customers by offering high definition, digital simulations instead. Every simulated carpet sample saves a whole quart of oil and decreases the amount of carpet that ends up in landfills.
• Online Customization Tools – To further reduce the amount of carpet samples sent out to customers, we have introduced a number of online product selection tools. The tremendous flexibility of these tools allows customers to explore more customized options much more efficiently, while using less carpet samples.
• Digital Design – The use of digital simulations has also significantly impacted product design. Our designers can now explore a wide variety of carpet styles and colors with remarkable accuracy and without having to produce as many samples.
• Sample Recycling – Because designers still have to use some actual carpet samples, we have extended our highly successful ReCover program with Sample ReCover. It's a new program that collects and recycles the carpet samples used by product designers.
• Easter Seals Employees – We employ a large number of Easter Seals clients - individuals with physical and mental disabilities - to assemble most of our sample folders each day. In doing so, we have set an example for community involvement that other manufacturers have begun to follow.