Laticrete launched its product information app as free to download and use. The full-service, jobsite reference, tool kit offers quick and 
easy retrieval of Laticrete product information from any iPhone, iPad or iPod touch device.
“Innovation is the fundamental principle that drives Laticrete,” said Henry Rothberg, co-owner of Laticrete. “It’s part of our culture, part of our history, and what drives us to stay on the leading edge of our industry. This is another service we provide at no cost to benefit the contractor, to benefit the end user: Information at your fingertips, right there on your iPhone—right now.”
Shaw Industries also launched an iPhone application called Carpet Stain Center, which provides carpet stain removal procedures for most common household stains. Step-by-step cleaning instructions from the mill are free for download from the iPhone app store and is compatible with the new iPad.
The Carpet Stain Center system houses almost 1,000 stains with cleaning solutions. According to Dani Brock, Shaw’s Anso nylon marketing manager, the application is unique to the flooring industry because it offers real-time solutions “as life happens. From leaking sippy cups full of orange juice, to monstrous disasters like food fights, the consumer will be equipped to handle life’s messes with the application.”
Mannington Commercial also launched its own iPhone application called Choices that Work. Mill executives claim it is the industry’s first mobile application
designed to serve designers’ process.
Using a smart phone’s integrated camera and scanning technology, the app integrates sample books to show coordinating collections and enable sample orders. By scanning the bar code printed on a Mannington sample book, a designer can immediately see coordinating patterns and colors across Mannington carpet collections and hard surface products. Technology is compatible with iPhone, Android and Blackberry smart mobile phones.
“Mobile apps have potential to add real value beyond simply promoting brands,” said Angie Carter, manager of commercial marketing. “Today’s users understand the value of brand building, but are much more interested in tools that serve their own processes. [Phone apps] create more meaningful interactions.”