ABK Industrie Ceramiche S.p.A. (ABK Group), a leading Italian porcelain floor and wall tile manufacturer, has secured a €10 million contract for 2024 from one of the top market players in the United States. This follows the launch of its second-generation FullVein3D technology, which will be used exclusively for the production of bathroom and kitchen countertops, cooktops, tables and furniture items.
Renowned for its cutting-edge manufacturing technology, the company has developed the second generation of its FullVein3D technology at its site in Solignano, one of the Italian tile industry’s most advanced facilities. Marking a further step forward for ABK Group, the process flawlessly recreates the aesthetics and veining of natural stone both on the surface and through the entire thickness of the slabs.
Ceramic materials are becoming an increasingly attractive option for furnishing and interior design applications due to their outstanding technical characteristics such as non-absorbency and durability, as well as the availability of large sizes. Porcelain stoneware is especially popular for its environment and health benefits. Its strength and durability ensure an exceptionally long lifetime, making it a more sustainable choice. It is also safer to work with than materials such as quartz.
Alessandro Fabbri, Managing Director for Sales & Marketing at ABK Group, commented: “FullVein3D technology is currently one of the most advanced innovations in the ceramic sector and is set to revolutionise industry and consumer standards due to its wide range of applications and its benefits in terms of the environment and health. Our company has always been renowned for its commitment to technological innovation and focus on exploring new opportunities through research. This approach enables us to provide solutions that meet the demands of the market and the expectations of the most discerning consumers. Our success in the United States, a market known for pioneering new trends, is a major source of pride for us.”
In this latest upgrade of the technology originally developed by ABK Group back in 2019, raw materials of different colours are mixed digitally prior to the pressing stage. This allows for the creation of through-vein slabs with extremely realistic graphic designs that extend seamlessly from the surface through the entire thickness of the material. Available in a 163×323 cm size and 12 mm and 20 mm thicknesses, these slabs are ideal for use as marble-effect worktops in many different furnishing and interior design applications.
The success of FullVein3D technology was confirmed last April at Coverings, the largest trade fair in North America – one of ABK Group’s main markets and an area in which it is continuing to expand.