Upcycling cocoa shells
From waste to worth
A natural beauty - Marmoleum Cocoa
Marmoleum Cocoa has become a go-to flooring solution for architects and designers seeking a natural yet contemporary look. The subtle texture created by cocoa shells adds depth and tactility, while the refined, modern colour palette offers a timeless look suited for a wide range of interiors.
By combining organic elements with balanced, mineral-inspired tones, the collection delivers a floor that is both on-trend and enduring, proving that sustainability and exceptional design can go hand in hand.
Marmoleum is a climate positive flooring, cradle to gate without offsetting. An endless source of inspiration, from the natural materials we use to the colours and designs we offer.
FAIRNESS AT THE CORE
The uniqueness of Marmoleum Cocoa extends far beyond the floor itself. Through its recent partnership with Kumasi, we source cocoa shells in a way that directly benefits cocoa farming communities. In traditional chocolate production, only the cocoa beans are used, while up to 75% of the fruit is typically discarded. What was once considered waste is now transformed into a valuable resource, providing farmers with additional income from materials that would otherwise go unused.
Kumasi’s impact goes even further: they also utilize the juice from the cocoa fruit, another overlooked part of the harvest, to create beverages, unlocking even more value for farmers while reducing waste throughout the supply chain. By sourcing cocao fruit juice directly from farmers in countries such as Ghana, Ivory Coast, and Ecuador, Kumasi enables farmers to earn additional income from the fruit that was previously discarded.
Raising the standard
An important element of this collaboration is its commitment to women's empowerment. Through programs connected to the cocoa shells value chain, Kumasi creates opportunities for women in cocoa-producing regions to build financial independence and strengthen their communities. This commitment is embedded in the partnership: supplying cocoa shells to Forbo Flooring Systems goes hand in hand with supporting these social initiatives.
With Marmoleum Cocoa, Forbo Flooring Systems demonstrates how a well-established product can continue to evolve and grow in relevance. By combining circular materials, exceptional design, and meaningful social impact, the collection raises the standard for responsible innovation in the building materials industry.
