CERAMIN is a completely PVC-free flooring made from recycled and recyclable polypropylene (PP). The use of safe raw materials and energy-efficient production reduce its environmental footprint. The CLASSEN Group has been manufacturing CERAMIN in Germany for over ten years and has consistently championed environmentally friendly innovations in the flooring industry. In addition to Cradle to Cradle certification, CERAMIN holds other environmental and quality certifications, such as the “Blue Angel” eco-label.

Simmerath/Kaisersesch, January 29, 2024. The pinnacle of sustainability lies in the heart of the Eifel. This is demonstrated by the large number of companies in the region that are exceptionally committed to environmentally friendly technologies and business practices. The EIFEL Award recognizes this commitment. In the Sustainability category, the CLASSEN Group won for its outstanding contributions to the environment and the region.

This year, the Eifel Future Initiative is presenting the EIFEL Award to companies that are particularly committed to sustainability. Dr. Tim Grüttemeier, City Region Council member and host, emphasized the high caliber of the submissions at the award ceremony: “This year’s award honors companies that don’t just talk about sustainability, but are already actively moving forward with concrete projects.” In making its nominations, the jury not only considered future plans but also gained insight into ongoing construction projects, energy-saving initiatives, and innovations within the companies.

The CLASSEN Group impressed the Future Initiative with its ongoing commitment to a sustainable economy, from its founding to the present day. The family-run company is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of laminate and designer flooring, as well as wall tiles. It places a special emphasis on environmentally friendly products. The in-house developed material CERAMIN® stands out. It is made from used plastic products and is therefore 100 percent recyclable. CLASSEN consciously avoids harmful substances such as PVC or phthalates and instead relies on healthy alternatives for the home. This approach is unique in the flooring industry and was developed and produced in the Eifel region.

The CLASSEN Group has been based in the Eifel region for decades and has its headquarters in Kaisersesch. Last year, the company opened one of the region’s largest solar power plants here. Covering an area of 35,000 m², the solar panels generate enough electricity on sunny days to power the entire production facility exclusively with green energy. As one of the region’s most important local employers, the family-owned business is committed to the region and supports the community both financially and through land donations. Albert Jung, mayor of the Kaisersesch municipal association, and Thomas Basten, deputy district administrator, therefore traveled to the awards ceremony to personally congratulate the company on winning the award. The CLASSEN Group’s commitment to the region and its many efforts and innovations toward greater sustainability fully convinced the EIFEL Award jury.

Julie Quervel, the CLASSEN Group’s sustainability officer, accepted the EIFEL Award at the ceremony on behalf of nearly 2,000 employees: “All of us at CLASSEN are committed to a sustainable flooring industry that will continue to produce eco-friendly innovations like CERAMIN in the future. To that end, we’re always on the lookout for skilled professionals who want to contribute to the green transformation right here in the Eifel. We’re proud of the work the entire team has accomplished and feel honored to receive the EIFEL Award for these achievements.” The award has since taken its place of honor in the lobby of the company’s headquarters in Kaisersesch.