Belgian Carpet Pioneer Lano Dies

Harelbeke, Belgium, Dec. 16, 2009--Pierre Lano, owner of the large Belgian carpet manufacturer bearing his name, died Dec. 9.

Reports said he took his own life.

Lano had retired from operational activities this year but remained on the board of directors. He had run the Harelbeke based company for nearly 40 years, succeeding his father in 1970.

Lano pursue diverse niche markets, where quality and service are important and, under his leadership, Lano became a highly respected player in the industry.