Automotive Flooring for the Highest Demands: Why Ray Catena Chooses Argelith

For the modernization of a Mercedes-Benz Service Center and the construction of a new Porsche Center in Edison, New Jersey, Ray Catena Auto Group (USA) was looking for a flooring solution that combines exceptional durability with a premium appearance. Once again, the company selected Argelith porcelain stoneware tiles. The result: long-lasting flooring for workshops, service drive areas, and customer spaces that consistently supports the premium standards of these luxury automotive brands.

The Challenge: A Floor Built for Daily Heavy-Duty Use

Modern automotive dealerships and service centers place exceptionally high demands on their flooring systems. Every day, surfaces are exposed to vehicle traffic, tire abrasion, heavy workshop equipment, oils, cleaning agents, water, and road salt.

At the same time, service drive lanes, customer reception areas, and vehicle delivery zones serve as the dealership’s calling card. Here, flooring must not only perform technically but also maintain a premium, well-maintained appearance over the long term.

For Ray Catena Auto Group, one of the leading luxury automotive dealer groups in the Northeastern United States, the objective was clear: a flooring solution that combines design, functionality, and cost efficiency for the long term.

Two Projects, One Standard

Mercedes-Benz Edison

As part of the modernization of the existing service center, Argelith porcelain stoneware tiles were installed in the service drive area, customer walkways, and vehicle delivery zones. The goal was to permanently upgrade heavily trafficked areas while creating a professional environment for customers.

Porsche Edison

For the Porsche Center completed in 2024, approximately 2,100 m² (22,600 sq ft) of Argelith porcelain stoneware tiles in a 100 × 200 × 15 mm format were installed. The project included a three-lane service drive, customer reception areas, and a workshop with more than 20 service bays.

Both projects pursued the same objective: a highly durable flooring solution with a consistent appearance and outstanding long-term value.

Flooring Requirements

The new flooring needed to:

• Withstand continuous vehicle traffic
• Resist tire abrasion and heavy workshop equipment
• Remain resistant to oils, chemicals, water, and road salt
• Allow fast and hygienic cleaning
• Maintain low wear over the long term
• Deliver a premium appearance in customer and service areas
• Be suitable as a standardized solution across multiple locations

Particularly demanding was the service drive area. As the central interface between customers and service operations, it must perform flawlessly every day while visibly reflecting the premium image of the brand.

A Proven Partnership

The collaboration between Ray Catena Auto Group and Argelith is built on numerous successful projects completed over many years. The dealership group has long relied on Argelith ceramic flooring systems, valuing their combination of product quality, durability, and dependable project execution.

“Based on our previous experience with Argelith across numerous locations, Argelith is our preferred partner. The company not only delivers on its promises but consistently provides the expected results. And when challenges arise, Argelith remains committed, supports the development of solutions, and stays involved until successful completion.”

Bob Gallagher, Ray Catena Motor Car Corp.

The Solution: High-Performance Porcelain Stoneware for Dealerships and Workshops

By selecting Argelith porcelain stoneware tiles with an R11 slip-resistance rating, Ray Catena chose a flooring solution that meets the highest standards of safety, durability, and life-cycle value.

These high-performance ceramic tiles offer:

• High breaking strength
• Exceptional abrasion resistance
• Low water absorption
• Excellent chemical resistance
• Long-term color and surface stability
• A service life measured in decades

Even under intensive use, the tiles retain their premium appearance while providing long-term planning reliability for facility operators.

Where Function Meets Design

In both projects, the flooring system was intentionally integrated into the overall architectural concept. Anthracite-colored tiles in the main vehicle lanes reflect the design language of the exterior areas, creating a smooth visual transition from the approach lanes into the service drive.

The result is a cohesive appearance that enhances the brand value of both Mercedes-Benz and Porsche while withstanding the daily demands of workshop operations.

Sustainable Benefits in Daily Operations

The highly dense structure of Argelith porcelain stoneware tiles results in extremely low water absorption. This minimizes the penetration of liquids and ensures long-term resistance to the everyday stresses of automotive service environments.

Cleaning is also straightforward and efficient. The combination of high abrasion resistance and minimal wear ensures that the flooring maintains its quality and appearance even after years of intensive use.

For operators, this means:

• Long service life
• Economical life-cycle costs
• Reduced maintenance expenses
• A consistently premium appearance
• High operational safety

Proven in Daily Use

Even years after installation, Argelith flooring systems continue to demonstrate their value in real-world operation. At both the Mercedes-Benz Service Center and the Porsche Center, the tiles reliably withstand continuous vehicle traffic in the service drives as well as intensive use throughout the workshop areas.

Even daily cleaning has no negative impact on performance or appearance. The flooring continues to present a professional image and supports an outstanding customer experience.

“Yes, the flooring has exceeded our expectations. We would choose the same flooring solution again without hesitation.”

Bob Gallagher, Ray Catena Motor Car Corp.

Conclusion: A Flooring Solution with Lasting Value

By standardizing on Argelith flooring systems, Ray Catena Auto Group benefits from a consistent appearance, proven performance, and a durable solution for future construction and renovation projects.

The Edison projects clearly demonstrate that premium design and maximum durability do not have to be mutually exclusive. For service drives, workshops, and customer-facing areas, Argelith porcelain stoneware provides a sustainable and cost-effective solution capable of meeting even the highest expectations.

Interested in More Project Details?

Download the complete case study featuring the Mercedes-Benz Edison and Porsche Edison projects to explore the projects in greater depth.