Benno Broen, an independent and legal expert on flooring complaints, wants to shake up the flooring industry. He argues that the industry is currently at a standstill, and it is time to speed up developments. His words are in response to the years of delay in the new laying regulations, which were originally due to be introduced in 2020 for 2021. Now, almost in the last quarter of 2025, there is still no progress.
'Why is the flooring industry at a standstill? Perhaps because people keep waiting. And waiting. And wait again,' Benno writes in his social media post. 'In 2020, people started working on the new laying regulations for 2021. We are now approaching the end of Q1 2025. And unfortunately: the new regulations are still not here.' This delay is having a major impact on the industry, causing both frustration and disappointment for many.
Benno acknowledges the efforts of those working on the new regulations, but also stresses the need to make progress. 'The people working on this are doing so voluntarily. And I have sincere respect for that. But who says A, must also say B.' While the corona pandemic was undoubtedly a hindrance, the emergence of online collaboration platforms such as Zoom and Teams has increased the opportunity for efficient collaboration, raising the question of why the momentum is still lacking.
In his post, Benno looks back at his own attempts to help speed up the process: 'In the past, I have offered my help several times. However, always without follow-up. The reasons? Well... they are as varied as they are unclear. (But not for me) So don't call me again.' This indicates his increasing retreat from further attempts, which only highlights how difficult it is to achieve change within the industry.
However, the standstill goes beyond just the delay in laying rules. Benno argues that progress is also insufficient in the area of preventive applications, such as data loggers, firing protocols and other guidelines. This, while these guidelines are essential for both current and future generations of floor layers. 'The slower progress is unfortunately characteristic of more than just laying guidelines. The industry also seems to be standing still in the area of preventive applications such as data loggers, firing protocols and other guidelines,' Benno said.
There is an urgent need for innovation and rejuvenation within the industry, according to Benno. 'It is time to dust off the industry. Time for an upgrade. Time for rejuvenation.' His appeal is particularly aimed at the 25- to 40-year-old generation, which he believes holds the future of the industry. 'Let the generation aged 25 to 40 have their voices heard. Not to sideline the old guard, but rather to learn from each other and move forward together again.'
Benno says he speaks daily to young professionals who are curious, critical and driven. This young generation is willing to resist and constantly challenge themselves. 'Many often say: knowledge is power. But curiosity is even more powerful?' This highlights his call to take the curiosity and fresh eyes of young professionals seriously.
His message to the flooring industry is crystal clear: there must be room for new noise, this young generation must be listened to, and clear direction must be given for the future. 'My call to the industry: make room for new sound, listen and give direction to the future,' Benno concludes. 'Because standing still has NEVER been an option.'
Source: Benno Broen