Breakthrough Technology Preserves Superior Flammability Properties Of Latex Furniture Cushions

Furniture World Magazine

Latex International, the most technically advanced producer of latex mattresses in the world, is moving into the U.S. furniture market with the introduction of Auto Extinguishing (AE) Latex. In development for over a year, the company created groundbreaking technology that will maintain the superior comfort and health benefits of latex while adding. components that will meet the strict anti-flammable requirements of the U.S. furniture market. "Expanding our presence in the furniture market has been a goal of Latex International for some time now. But we faced the dilemma of meeting strict flammability requirements, without sacrificing the quality of our product," explained John Coffey, Executive Vice President, Latex International. "Our chemists and engineers have done some ingenious engineering to design a new formula for furniture cushions that does not degrade the performance of the latex. The result of our new formula is high quality, long lasting Auto Extinguishing Latex, a product far superior to conventional cushioning materials." Interest in latex cushioning is increasing rapidly as furniture manufacturers become aware of the rapid growth of latex as the premier cushioning material in bedding and recognize the value it brings to furniture. Manufactured at the Ansonia, CT headquarters and distributed by the Los Angeles-based Latex International West facility, the new AE Latex is available as cushioning for furniture and futon manufacturers. With a five year warranty, AE Latex cushions are guaranteed to outlive other foam mixtures on the market. This is especially important in the fast growing leather sofa and chair market, where the leather upholstery typically outlasts cushions made of traditional materials. "Consumers investing in a high-end sofa or. chair are in for the long haul. They want to know that their furniture will last for years to come," observed Coffey. "Our market research indicates they are willing to invest a little extra for latex cushions and the expectation of knowing that their cushions will last as long as their new sofa." Latex, a natural substance derived from the rubber tree, is inherently antimicrobial, anti-bacteria] and dust mite resistant - perfect for pulmonary allergy sufferers. It conforms to the body, promoting proper body alignment and exceptional support. Latex International, headquartered in Ansonia, CT, has been a leader in the design and manufacture of latex products for more than twenty years. In 1997, Latex Foam Products and the European based Sapsa, the world's largest latex mattress manufacturer, formed Latex International, a joint venture. For more information call 1-800-LATEX-US or e-mail tmccain@latexfoam.com.