Designing with PURPOSE

As part of the global collective Broadview Materials, Max on Top® is redefining sustainable
surfaces – connecting South Africa to intelligent, responsible and durable design.

In today’s built environment, sustainability is no longer a specification checkbox: it is a defining parameter of design. For architects, designers and construction professionals, the challenge lies in selecting materials that perform aesthetically and technically while contributing meaningfully to reducing environmental impact. As the South African distributor within the global Broadview Materials group, Max on Top® are part of a collective that is actively advancing surface solutions – combining innovation, measurable impact and long-term performance.

Measurable impact

Broadview Materials brings together leading surface brands such as Arpa®, FENIX® and Trespa® under a shared sustainability framework. At the core of this approach is a clear principle: Making Real Impact for Less Impact. This strategy is grounded in the use of Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), a recognised methodology that evaluates environmental impact across the full lifecycle of a product. By measuring inputs such as energy, raw materials, emissions and waste, the group is able to set tangible reduction targets and transparently track progress.

The results are measurable. Between 2019 and 2023, Broadview Materials reduced its cradle-to-gate carbon footprint by approximately 30%, achieving its reduction target ahead of schedule. This progress reflects a structured, data-led approach focused on two key areas: improving material choices, including increasing the use of lower-impact and bio-based inputs, and enhancing operational efficiency, reducing energy use, waste and process emissions.

Innovation through Nemho

Supporting this strategy is Nemho (Next Material House), the group’s central research and development hub. Nemho enables collaboration across all brands, accelerating innovation in both material technology and sustainability performance. A key focus area is the development of more sustainable material compositions, including the increased use of bio-based components in surface technologies. This ensures that improvements are embedded at a material level, rather than applied only at the end of the production process.

Durability drives sustainability

Within interior applications, Arpa and FENIX demonstrate how durability directly contributes to sustainability. FENIX surfaces are engineered using advanced manufacturing processes to achieve ultra-matt finishes with low light reflectivity, anti-fingerprint properties and a soft-touch feel. Beyond aesthetics, the material is designed for long-term performance, including the ability for superficial micro-scratches to be thermally repaired, helping extend product lifespan. Arpa complements this with high-pressure laminates developed for demanding interior environments. Through innovations such as VIS technology, Arpa surfaces offer significantly enhanced wear resistance – VIS being up to 20 times stronger than standard HPL – supporting longevity in high-traffic applications.

With Bloom technology in both Fenix and Arpa HPL, part of the fossil-based components in the resin have been substituted with renewable secondary materials derived from industrial bio-based by-products. With this innovation most of the key ingredients for our products are of natural origin and renewable. This focus on durability aligns with a fundamental sustainability principle: materials that last longer reduce the need for replacement, lowering overall environmental impact.

Performance and longevity

Trespa focuses on facade cladding and laboratory furniture, providing surfaces that are resistant, long-lasting and environmentally responsible. The materials are designed to withstand the rigours of exterior and high-traffic applications, extending the lifespan of projects and reducing environmental impact over time.

Trespa Second Life is a take-back programme aimed at reusing panels that are dismantled before the end of their useful life. Panels may be repurposed for outdoor furniture, garden projects, signage and more, saving over 280 000kg CO2 eq. in 2024 and 2025 alone. The programme is active in the Netherlands, France, Germany and Belgium, with plans for further expansion. Panels are carefully evaluated for reuse to ensure environmental benefits outweigh transportation impacts, supporting a circular economy approach.

A global vision

As the South African distributor, Max on Top® connects the local market to these globally developed materials and strategies. Being part of the Broadview Materials group means that every product we supply is supported by ongoing research, measurable sustainability targets and internationally aligned standards. www.maxontop.co.za