The story behind Robert Van Buren is that of a young star’s rise through the ranks, beginning as a chemist in 1950. Through the years, Van Buren’s vision impacted every aspect of the industry, from manufacturing and distribution to retailing and marketing. Called a manufacturing “genius” by a friend, Van Buren understood the business. Throughout his career he was instrumental in the development of sheet vinyl manufacturing technology, such as thru-chip construction and the introduction of the first urethanecoated tile. He was known to visit factories, roll up his sleeves and get involved with the flooring business from start to finish.