May 2008 - Westco, the British manufacturer of floor covering, has formally joined the European Federation of Parquet Importers (EFPI). Westco's membership was approved unanimously by EFPI members during their General Assembly in Brussels.

EFPI, which regroups the top European wood flooring importers, was created in 2005 and has registered a rapid growth and expansion of its geographic coverage through its membership. Westco is a UK-based company that was formed over 75 years ago and has become a well-established market leader in laminate flooring, cork, vinyl & carpet tiles and wood parquet. Westco's products are currently installed in over 90 countries worldwide.

Mr Rafael Michavila García, EFPI's President commented:
"The EFPI has enjoyed continuous growth in the last few years and has reinforced its position on the European scene. Regarding the development of the European legislation in different areas that could have an impact on the wood-flooring imports sector, it becomes more and more important for the parquet importers to be well represented at the EU level. We are glad to welcome Westco in our Federation and are confident that Westco´s participation in EFPI will contribute to the strengthening of the industry's voice towards the EU."

Westco's Chairman, Mr Nigel Gibbs, added:
"I am delighted to join the group and I look forward to working together with the other EFPI member companies, the Board and the Secretariat, with a view to be well represented and have a say on the elaboration of policies, standards and issues of interest to our industry."

Date: May 30 2008
Ref: EHT/WEST/P/053