In an exclusive interview with MENA Covering, Mr. Geert Vandamme, a key executive at Condor Group, shared valuable insights on the impact of U.S. trade policy, shifting logistics costs, and the company’s strategic outlook for the American and global flooring markets.
Mr. Vandamme opened the conversation with a realistic take on the broader economic landscape. “From a global economic perspective, the recent actions taken by the Trump administration have been more negative than positive,” he noted. “For the flooring sector, particularly for Floor Textile, things are shifting. Shaw and Mohawk, the two largest players in the U.S., are currently facing challenges.”
With Condor Group already holding substantial market share in the U.S.—especially in automotive and wall-to-wall textile floor coverings—the company is observing significant effects from new tariffs and exchange rate fluctuations. “Our American customers are reaching out with concerns,” Vandamme stated. “Tariffs and a weaker dollar have made our products more expensive, both in terms of cost and conversion.”
In response, the company is evaluating the possibility of establishing a local presence. “We are not taking that decision immediately,” Vandamme clarified. “Trump had just taken office at the time, and we expect that policies may shift again. We are proceeding step by step.”
Interestingly, while logistics costs from China to the U.S. have risen sharply, container prices for inbound raw materials to Condor from China have fallen. “We purchase raw materials in dollars from China, so cheaper container rates help—but when we export, the benefits are neutralized. There’s a fine balance,” Vandamme explained.
On the competitive front, Vandamme raised concerns about Chinese manufacturers who may redirect unsold U.S.-bound volumes toward Europe or other regions, potentially triggering a price war. “We expect downward pressure in the low to mid-end product segments. That’s why Condor is doubling down on high-end quality carpets where we see more pricing resilience.”
Despite market uncertainty, Mr. Vandamme remained calm and strategic:
“We are not in panic mode—far from it. But we must stay alert. The current situation is volatile, and no one truly knows what’s coming next.”
Condor Group’s long-term strategy emphasizes quality, agility, and global responsiveness—an approach that is proving more critical than ever in today’s unpredictable trade environment.
