(APRIL 2013)—Five of the largest organizations representing tile contractors, installers and manufacturers have developed a new certification program which will be recognized by the entire tile industry. Advanced Certifications for Tile Installers— ACT—will address four technically-challenging installation areas of current importance: Large Format Tile Installation and Substrate Preparation, Mudwork, Shower Pans and Membranes. A specific certification will demonstrate the installer’s skill in each of these four segments.

Participants in the development initiative are: Ceramic Tile Education Foundation (CTEF), providing training and certification for any installer; Tile Contractors Association of America (TCAA), representing IUBAC signatory tile contractors; International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers (IUBAC), whose members are skilled tilesetters who have completed multi-year apprenticeship as well as other trained masonry craftworkers; International Masonry Institute, which provides professional and technical training for union masonry contractors, and National Tile Contractors Association, with membership open to all tile contracting companies. Tile Council of North America (TCNA) manufacturer members companies are contributing to development of the modules and tests.

Installers who wish to be certified in these four specific programs must meet one of two criteria demonstrating prior training and commitment to professional development. Eligibility is conferred by completion of a Department of Labor-approved apprenticeship program, as offered by the union, or certification through the CTEF Certified Tile Installer program. Each ACT certification will be a stand-alone unit, allowing the installer to tailor training to meet individual or company needs. Completion of all four units is not necessary to attain a higher level of certification.

ACT will take industry training to a new level, focusing on unique installation skills required by architects, design professionals, specifiers, project owners, builders and consumers to complete a successful project.

At Coverings, April 29 – May 2, 2013, at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, the first installers will be certified. Attendees at the international exhibition will witness the test procedures and understand the skill requirements necessary to pass certification in the ACT Program. Leaders of the respective organizations will present a seminar explaining the program and its requirements on Wednesday, May 1st. For room and time information, go to coverings.com and click on the FREE conference program.

Following Coverings, we will embark on several initiatives to launch the program, including building of test modules, material and curriculum development, logistics planning, marketing and recruitment strategies, and more.

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(ALEXANDRIA, VA. – APRIL 2013)—Attendees at Coverings 2013 will be able to witness four masterful space designs incorporating tile and stone actually being built during the international exposition’s Installation Design Showcase. As in previous years, the ambitious live-action demonstration and exhibit, which spotlights the crucial role first-rate installation plays in the successful realization of any serious design project, will be a major attraction when The Ultimate Tile + Stone Experience comes to Atlanta for the first time, April 29-May 2, 2013. Construction begins two days before Coverings 2013 opens, and is scheduled for completion on Wednesday, May 1. The free exhibit will remain on view through the show’s close.

The Showcase matches four outstanding Atlanta-based design firms with four of the nation’s finest installation teams. The National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA), a Coverings co-sponsor that helped originate the Showcase four years ago, initiated these designer-installer match-ups. To participate, installers must have NTCA Five Star Recognition, the association’s highest ranking, and be certified by the Ceramic Tile Education Foundation. This year’s collaborative pairings will produce four installations—a bar/lounge, a hotel lobby, an in-patient room in a women’s birthing center, and a master bathroom—each of which will highlight a different design aesthetic centered on tile and stone.

Bar/Lounge Design talents Michael Neiswander and Margaret Nysewander of Atlanta’s ASD Inc., have conjured a spectacular bar—“a conceptual art piece, really” says Nysewander—that will feature all-red tiles from different Ceramics of Italy manufacturers, applied in a faceted manner. “We wanted to challenge ourselves and the installer with something complex. The different textures will showcase the installer’s methods,” Nysewander continues. “The design calls for a lot of intricate cuts,” agrees Ryan Smith, director of Rimrock Design, the Lake City, Florida-based installer assigned to realize the demanding project. “It’s the contractor’s job to bring it to life.” The walls will be clad in simple gray large-format tiles that, like those on the bar, will be applied using MAPEI installation products.

Hotel Lobby Hospitality-design veterans Foreman Rogers and Allison Isaacs of Atlanta’s tvsdesign are accustomed to working on large hotel lobbies. “The challenge here is to evoke a huge space while working on a rather small scale,” says Isaacs. The team has specified Plane, 5-foot by 10-foot engineered porcelain ceramic wall panels from StonePeak Ceramics, for the task of bringing grandeur to their vignette. “It resembles Calacatta Borghini marble,” says Isaacs. “It’s thin, lightweight, impervious to staining, large, clean, and monolithic—perfect for what we do.” The installer, Rod Owen of C.C. Owen Tile Company, Inc., in Jonesboro, Georgia, is excited to be working with the new material. “Before, the largest panels were 4-foot by 4-foot,” he says. “This big new size really combines slab and tile installation methods.” But Owen will get to use his more conventional skills, too, installing various glass and mirror tiles from Traditions in Tile employing TEC installation materials provided by H.B. Fuller Construction Products Inc. throughout.

In-patient Room in a Women's Birthing Center “The whole concept of the room is serenity and relaxation,” says Mary Porter who along with Craig Anderchak—both of Atlanta’s VeenendaalCave Healthcare—designed the calming space. Their first move was to select Italian tile that looked like light-color fabric, “as if it were soft to the touch,” she says. “For the floor, we are using wood-look porcelain tile from Italy, which will work well with the texture of the walls.” The opportunity to work with Strata Mat, a new coupling membrane manufactured by LATICRETE, intrigues installer Chad Love of David Allen Company in Birmingham, Alabama. “The product goes under the tile,” he says, “and has crack isolation properties so that there’s a barrier between tile and concrete,” an important consideration in a healthcare facility.

Master Bathroom “Many bathrooms are feminine,” says Mark Williams of Atlanta’s Mark Williams Design Associates. “I’m doing a more masculine version—1920s Gatsby modernized with Deco undertones.” To achieve the look, he has specified Noble Company products and TOTO fixtures along with Crossville tile throughout, including porcelain wall tile in chestnut brown for a neutral background; bright blue glass tile for subtly applied accents; and oblong 4-inch by 24-inch porcelain floor tile that will be laid in a herringbone pattern. “For the first time we will be working with Crossville’s new Laminam very thin wall tile, which will be interesting,” says installer Buck Collins of Collins Tile and Stone in Aldie, Virginia. “It’s an opportunity for us to spotlight a new skill.” All of the tile will be applied using MAPEI installation materials.

“These rooms are not all settings in which you would necessarily expect to see tile,” says Bart Bettiga, executive director at National Tile Contractors Association. “But one of the Installation Design Showcase’s purposes is to demonstrate tile and stone applications that may be unusual or surprising but that turn out to be appropriate and wonderful. Above all the Showcase highlights just how important the ongoing designer/installer partnership is to a successful project. It offers attendees the chance to witness the industry’s best practices first hand and to interact directly with designers and installers during the build-out right there on the show floor. Bringing the field to life in this way is another example of what makes Coverings a unique and valuable experience.”

About Coverings

Coverings is the largest and most important ceramic tile and natural stone trade fair and expo in the United States. It features exhibitors from more than 50 countries and is the stage for introducing some of the most innovative tile and stone products in the world.

The exposition also serves as a valuable resource for continuing education for all segments of the industry, with more than 70 informative, accredited seminars and live demonstration sessions throughout the show, all free of charge.

Coverings attracts thousands of distributors, retailers, fabricators, contractors, specifiers, architectural and design professionals, builders and real estate developers, as well as journalists and bloggers who cover this vital and dynamic industry.

Sponsors of the show are The Ceramic Tile Distributors Association (CTDA), Tile of Spain/Spanish Ceramic Tile Manufacturer's Association (ASCER), Ceramics of Italy/Confindustria Ceramica, National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA) and The Tile Council of North America (TCNA). The show is managed by National Trade Productions.

Coverings 2013 will be held April 29-May 2, at Georgia World Congress Center, Atlanta, Georgia. For more information visit www.coverings.com or contact National Trade Productions, Coverings Show Management, 703-706-8257.

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(ALEXANDRIA, VA. – MARCH 2013)—Coverings 2013, the tile and stone industry’s largest international exposition, offers an extraordinarily wide-ranging conference program comprising more than 70 free sessions, many aimed specifically at architects and interior designers, with the added benefit of CEU credit.

When The Ultimate Tile + Stone Experience comes to Atlanta for the first time, April 29–May 2, 2013, there will be more than 900 exhibitors showing an unrivalled range of innovative products and technologies. But architects and designers often cite the free CEU credits and conference sessions, which are categorized by professional-experience level ranging from novice to corporate leader, as a primary reason for attending the tile and stone super show. Coverings is an AIA/CES Approved Provider, a NKBA CEU Provider Partner and is IDCEC approved. For a list of IDCEC and AIA approved sessions, please visit www.coverings.com/education.

In addition to the Featured Speakers previously announced, other conference topics of particular interest to the architecture and design community include best sustainability practices for tile and stone; guidance about getting your projects published in the new digital age; and how advancement in technology and production is resulting in never-before available tile, stone and glass.

Here are details of some of these not-to-be-missed sessions:

Artistry Meets Innovation: Designing with the Newest Tile, Stone and Glass. Artistic Tile’s Joshua Levinson reveals how advancement in technology and production is resulting in tile, stone and glass formats never before available to designers and architects. This session will review some of the newest available products, showcase how they differ, talk about specifying them, feature the looks that can be achieved with them, and provide guidance on their installation and care. Wednesday, May 1, 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM.

Color Theory and Its Applications. Feras Irikat, design director for Oceanside Glasstile and Mandala, examines the impact of light, vision, and texture on color in the design environment. The basics of color theory and psychology will be outlined, followed by a discussion of how wood, textiles, glass and ceramics can be fully integrated to create and define cohesive, beautiful spaces. Tuesday, April 30, 3:15 PM – 4:15 PM.

Concepts: Where Do I Find My Inspiration? Liset Robinson, professor at Savannah College of Art and Design and winner of the 2012 Interior Design Educator of the Year Inaugural Award from the International Interior Design Association, shows how concept generation and creative thinking are processes that can be learned. The design process begins with analysis, which leads to elaboration, and then moves towards discovery. The process of concept derivation will be discussed, including the exploration of graphic images such as diagrams, which allow designers to look at things differently in order to expand their thinking. Tuesday, April 30, 9:30 AM –10:30 AM.

Trends in Tile: Boundary-Breaking New Looks, New Innovations and New Materials for Indoors & Out. Jen Renzi, author of The Art of Tile and a freelance writer for Interior Design, House Beautiful and other publications, will discuss how cutting-edge digital technology and the revival of artisanal processes are transforming the look and application of tile. From super thin to super thick, the formats tile comes in have been pushed to extremes, expanding how and where it can be installed. The industry is a hotbed of innovation, with the brightest design luminaries and new talents teaming with top manufacturers. Renzi will also show how the latest tile trends dovetail with broader cultural shifts, and address how manufacturers are making their products greener than ever before. Tuesday, April 30, 1:45 PM – 2:45 PM.

Tips, Tricks and Landmines in the Field of Green. Holley Henderson, founder of H2 Ecodesign, provides the latest on LEED V4, sustainability at low or no cost, and future trends in the industry. This session includes tips on best practices in sustainability for tile and stone; tricks to understand the new LEED V4 prerequisites; and advice on marketing and positioning products for teams and clients. Tuesday, April 30, 10:45 AM – 11:45 AM.

Designers, Build the Buzz: Editors, Bloggers and Social Media Pros Offer Insider Advice on Getting Published. A panel of influential editors and bloggers spells out what catches their eye and why, offers guidance on how best to present your work to them, and discuses new ways of showcasing projects on sites like Houzz and Pinterest. Monday, April 29, 3:15 PM – 4:15 PM.

Demystifying the Design Professional and the Tile Manufacturer Relationship. For an innovative product to meet expectations on a project, the designer needs to find the right manufacturer to work with. Michael Johnson of Michael P Johnson Design Studio, and Lira Luis of Atelier Lira Luis (ALLL) examine the best practices related to the designer-manufacturer relationship and how both sides can benefit from the process. Several case-study projects will be presented demonstrating aesthetically pleasing projects resulting from successful designer-manufacturer collaborations. Thursday, May 2, 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM.

Specification 2.0: Understanding Ceramics to Use Their Full Potential. Ryan Fasan of Professional Attention to Tile Installations explains how, as the industry changes and new production and glazing techniques give rise to new materials, it's up to sales people and specifiers to take full advantage of every improvement and leap forward. Modern technology like large formats, slim porcelains, ventilated facades, and ceramic screens provide nearly limitless potential to grow our specifications outside kitchens and baths or even floors and walls. Wednesday, May 1, 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM.

Be Our Guest: Tile and Stone in Hospitality. From restaurants to hotels, architects and designers throughout Atlanta are being recognized for inspiring designs both at home and abroad. Panelists Pierre Josselin of Hirsch Bedner Associates (HBA), Patricia Richey ASID of tvsdesign, and Karen Teske Blue of The Johnson Studio share their motivation, the role tile and stone has played in their work, and future hospitality trends. Tuesday, April 30, 10:45 AM – 11:45 AM.

Installation Design Showcase Deconstructed. Meet with the Atlanta-area designers and NTCA Five Star Contractors of the Installation Design Showcase and learn what it takes to pull together these annual vignettes in just five days. You will tour the four unique spaces of the showcase—a bar/lounge, hotel lobby, inpatient room in a birthing center, and a master bedroom—and learn from the participants every detail from the types of tiles chosen and why, to the thought-process behind the designs, to the exceptional installation technique. Wednesday, May 1, 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM.

Other programs of particular interest to architects and designers include:

• Thin Tile Project: From Design to Completion. Tuesday, April 30, 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM.
• Ceramic Tile: An Eco-Logical Choice. Tuesday, April 30, 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM.
• A US Case Study in Ventilated Facade: First Bank and Trust of Skokie. Wednesday, May 1, 9:30 AM –10:30 AM.
• Promoting with Pinterest. Wednesday, May 1, 10:45 AM – 11:45 AM.
• Advanced SketchUp. Thursday, May 2, 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM.

For the full conference program go to www.coverings.com/ConferenceSchedule.

About Coverings

Coverings is the largest and most important ceramic tile and natural stone trade fair and expo in the United States. It features exhibitors from more than 50 countries and is the stage for introducing some of the most innovative tile and stone products in the world.

The exposition also serves as a valuable resource for continuing education for all segments of the industry, with more than 70 informative, accredited seminars and live demonstration sessions throughout the show, all free of charge.

Coverings attracts thousands of distributors, retailers, fabricators, contractors, specifiers, architectural and design professionals, builders and real estate developers, as well as journalists and bloggers who cover this vital and dynamic industry.

Sponsors of the show are The Ceramic Tile Distributors Association (CTDA), Tile of Spain/Spanish Ceramic Tile Manufacturer's Association (ASCER), Ceramics of Italy/Confindustria Ceramica, National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA) and The Tile Council of North America (TCNA). The show is managed by National Trade Productions.

Coverings 2013 will be held April 29-May 2, at Georgia World Congress Center, Atlanta, Georgia. For more information visit www.coverings.com or contact National Trade Productions, Coverings Show Management, 703-706-8257.

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(ALEXANDRIA, VA. – MARCH 2013)—Coverings 2013, the tile and stone industry’s largest international exposition, offers an extraordinarily wide-ranging conference program comprising more than 70 free sessions, many aimed specifically at builders and remodelers.

When The Ultimate Tile + Stone Experience comes to Atlanta for the first time, April 29–May 2, 2013, there will be more than 900 exhibitors showing an unrivalled range of innovative products and technologies. But builders and remodelers often cite the free conference sessions, which are categorized by professional-experience level ranging from novice to corporate leader, as a primary reason for attending the tile and stone super show.

In addition to the featured speakers previously announced, session topics of particular interest to the building and remodeling community include the emerging technology of reduced thickness or “thin tile”; best sustainability practices for tile and stone; and the differences between installing tile in remodeling and new-construction projects.

Here are details of some of these not-to-be-missed sessions:

Thin Tile Technology and Installation Considerations. Reduced thickness or “thin tile” is the emerging technology capturing the attention of the entire tile industry. Continued education on these products is a must, as there are currently no manufacturing and installation standards to guide professionals on this latest advancement. Tim Bolby of Crossville, Inc., Noah Chitty of StonePeak Ceramics, Dan Marvin of Florida Tile, and Dr. Neil McMurdie of MAPEI Corporation discuss the technology, the opportunities it presents for the market, and the importance of proper specification, installation considerations, and selection of appropriate installation materials and tools. Wednesday, May 1, 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM.

Installing Tile and Stone in Remodeling Projects: Panel Discussion. Remodeling projects account for a significant amount of tile and stone consumption, and are very different from new construction and commercial projects in many ways. Many tile contractors who specialize in this type of work must be knowledgeable and proficient in other trades, and know how to put a team together to meet the customer’s expectations. NTCA five-star contractors John Cox of Cox Tile, Inc., Jan Hohn of Hohn & Hohn Tile, and NTCA Executive Director, Bart Bettiga, will share their field experience and answer questions. Tuesday, April 30, 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM.

Marble Use in the Kitchen. Joshua Levinson of Artistic Tile and Todd Robertson of Vermont Quarries will focus on the use of marble on kitchen countertops, a practice on the rise in the US. Attendees will learn the different protective treatments required; appreciate the unique design possibilities of using marble for countertops; and expand their ability to set the proper consumer expectation. Monday, April 29, 3:15 PM – 4:15 PM.

Tile Council of North America: 2013 Version of the TCNA Handbook and other TCNA Initiatives. Eric Astrachan of the TCNA unveils the latest TCNA Handbook, an important document that’s used by professionals across the industry and ensures quality sales, specification and installation of tile and stone. Hear what you need to know to keep your business up-to-date and successful. Monday, April 29, 8:30 AM – 10:00 AM.

Stone Trends 2013. Vince Marazita of Marazita & Associates delivers the FIFTEENTH ANNUAL “State of the Industry” presentation on the direction of the dimensional stone market in the US, a crucial topic in these lean construction years. This session will cover information, sourcing, marketing and application trends in the stone industry over the last year, including examples of award winning projects recognized for their use of natural stone. Thursday, May 2, 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM.

Tips, Tricks and Landmines in the Field of Green. Holley Henderson, founder of H2 Ecodesign, provides the latest on LEED V4, sustainability at low or no cost and future trends in the industry. This session includes tips on best practices in sustainability for tile and stone; tricks to understand the new LEED V4 prerequisites; and advice on marketing and positioning products for teams and clients. Tuesday, April 30, 10:45 AM – 11:45 AM.

Other programs of particular interest to architects and designers include:

• Style, Substance and Color: Major Trends and Directions. Monday, April 29, 1:45 PM – 2:45 PM.
• Sealing Natural Stone, Tile & Grout: Fact & Fiction. Monday, April 29, 3:15 PM – 4:15 PM.
• Natural Stone Tile: An Overview. Tuesday, April 30, 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM.
• Ceramic Tile: An Eco-Logical Choice. Tuesday, April 30, 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM.
• Artistry Meets Innovation: Designing with the Newest Tile, Stone and Glass. Wednesday, May 1, 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM.
• Innovative Technology for the Tile Trade. Wednesday, May 1, 1:45 PM – 2:45 PM.
• Installation Design Showcase Deconstructed. Wednesday, May 1, 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM.

For the full conference program go to www.coverings.com/ConferenceSchedule.

About Coverings

Coverings is the largest and most important ceramic tile and natural stone trade fair and expo in the United States. It features exhibitors from more than 50 countries and is the stage for introducing some of the most innovative tile and stone products in the world.

The exposition also serves as a valuable resource for continuing education for all segments of the industry, with more than 70 informative, accredited seminars and live demonstration sessions throughout the show, all free of charge.

Coverings attracts thousands of distributors, retailers, fabricators, contractors, specifiers, architectural and design professionals, builders and real estate developers, as well as journalists and bloggers who cover this vital and dynamic industry.

Sponsors of the show are The Ceramic Tile Distributors Association (CTDA), Tile of Spain/Spanish Ceramic Tile Manufacturer's Association (ASCER), Ceramics of Italy/Confindustria Ceramica, National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA) and The Tile Council of North America (TCNA). The show is managed by National Trade Productions.

Coverings 2013 will be held April 29-May 2, at Georgia World Congress Center, Atlanta, Georgia. For more information visit www.coverings.com or contact National Trade Productions, Coverings Show Management, 703-706-8257.

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(ALEXANDRIA, VA. – MARCH 2013)—Coverings 2013, the tile and stone industry’s largest international exposition, offers an extraordinarily wide-ranging conference program comprising more than 70 sessions, many aimed specifically at distributors.

When the Ultimate Tile + Stone Experience comes to Atlanta for the first time, April 29-May 2, 2013, there will be more than 900 exhibitors showing an unrivalled range of innovative products and technologies. But distributors often cite the free conference sessions, which are categorized by professional-experience level ranging from novice to corporate leader, as a primary reason for attending the tile and stone super show.

In addition to the featured speakers previously announced, session topics of particular interest to the distribution community include successful ways to combine traditional advertising and marketing with the new social media; directions in the dimensional stone industry; and the present and future effect of the housing recovery on ceramic tile sales.

Here are some of the highlights:

Combining Traditional Advertising/Marketing and Social Media to Build Your Marketing Plan. Smart companies are combining traditional advertising and marketing with social media, the new wave of communication. Lisbeth Calandrino of Fabulous Floors magazine will show that an effective marketing plan is only possible when you understand the differences and similarities between the two, and how they can work together to reach your goals. Tuesday, April 30, 3:15 PM – 4:15 PM.

Wholesale/Slab Distributors Forum. Join Eric Schigiel of Opustone Natural Stone Distributors, Jonathan Zanger of Walker Zanger, Rup Shah of M S International, and Vincent Moiso of Quarry Collection for the fifth annual discussion of strategic issues critical to running successful wholesale/slab distribution companies. This open discussion will cover a host of operational issues including building strong fabricator relationships, networking with the design community, freight issues and much more. Wednesday, May 1, 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM.

The Effect of the Housing Recovery on Ceramic Tile Sales. In this annual industry outlook, Donato Grosser of Grosser Consulting will examine the developments in the ceramic tile market following the housing recovery: who will benefit the most from this trend; how the distribution system will be impacted; how the future of the industry will look. Wednesday, May 1, 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM.

Selling Tile: The Internet, the Industry & the Consumer. Moderator Christine Whittemore of Simple Marketing Now LLC, and panelists Steve Slutzah of Westside Tile, Bill Buyok of Avente Tile, Tom Carr of Pan American Ceramics, and Dave Milanowycz of Florida Tile discuss how the Internet is influencing the sale of tile to the consumer. From strict sale policies, to reduced prices and no sales tax, the Internet has created a new frontier for the industry to navigate. Learn from the players how this is affecting the industry and the consumer. Wednesday, May 1, 3:15 PM – 4:15 PM.

Managing a Successful Family Business. Working in a family business can be a challenge. Why are some businesses successful, while others struggle? What are the best practices? Moderator Tony Malisani of Malisani Inc., and panelists Michelle Goetzinger of Blume’s, Michael Twiss of Natural Stone Designs, Inc. and Columbia Stone, Inc., and Jeremy Twiss of Natural Stone Designs, Inc.—all family businesses—share their positive and not-so-positive experiences! Wednesday, May 1, 3:15 PM – 4:15 PM.

How Video Marketing Can Help Improve Your Branding and Online Marketing Efforts. Juliet Sallette of Wolf TMC shows the importance of video marketing and branding efforts, and how to use them to help generate online buzz and most importantly how to help achieve online leads and publicity by leveraging YouTube and other online marketing channels that can fit into any marketing budget. Tuesday, April 30, 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM.

The Psychology of Price and Why It Matters. Consumers are obsessed with price. But by some estimates there are almost half a billion dollars in unused daily deals, which is proof that for many consumers, getting a deal is more important than getting a product. Flooring retailers appeal to this consumer by slashing prices even more, which can have a significant impact on profitability. James Dion of Dionco Inc. will share at least ten alternative price strategies that don't involve lowering prices but positioning them in a way that the customers feel they got the best deal. Tuesday, April 30, 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM.

Other programs of interest to distributors include:

• Why Am I Being Sued When I Did Nothing Wrong? Tuesday, April 30, 3:15 PM – 4:15 PM.
• How to Build Profitable Customers Through Experience Marketing. Wednesday, May 1, 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM.
• Know Before You Import: U.S. Customs' Classification of Building Stone. Wednesday, May 1, 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM.
• Selling & Marketing Green the Easy Way. Wednesday, May 1, 10:45 AM –11:45 AM.
• Green Squared: North America’s Standard and Certification Program for Tile Product Sustainability. Wednesday, May 1, 3:15 PM – 4:15 PM.
• Social Media and Business: Creating Content to Engage, Build and Grow Customer Relationships. Thursday, May 2, 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM.

For the full conference program go to www.coverings.com/ConferenceSchedule.

About Coverings

Coverings is the largest and most important ceramic tile and natural stone trade fair and expo in the United States. It features exhibitors from more than 50 countries and is the stage for introducing some of the most innovative tile and stone products in the world.

The exposition also serves as a valuable resource for continuing education for all segments of the industry, with more than 70 informative, accredited seminars and live demonstration sessions throughout the show, all free of charge.

Coverings attracts thousands of distributors, retailers, fabricators, contractors, specifiers, architectural and design professionals, builders and real estate developers, as well as journalists and bloggers who cover this vital and dynamic industry.

Sponsors of the show are The Ceramic Tile Distributors Association (CTDA), Tile of Spain/Spanish Ceramic Tile Manufacturer's Association (ASCER), Ceramics of Italy/Confindustria Ceramica, National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA) and The Tile Council of North America (TCNA). The show is managed by National Trade Productions.

Coverings 2013 will be held April 29-May 2, at Georgia World Congress Center, Atlanta, Georgia. For more information visit www.coverings.com or contact National Trade Productions, Coverings Show Management, 703-706-8257.

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(ALEXANDRIA, VA. – MARCH 2013)—Coverings 2013, the tile and stone industry’s largest international exposition, offers an extraordinarily wide-ranging conference program comprising more than 70 sessions, many aimed specifically at fabricators.

When The Ultimate Tile + Stone Experience comes to Atlanta for the first time, April 29–May 2, 2013, there will be more than 900 exhibitors showing an unrivalled range of innovative products and technologies. But fabricators often cite the free conference sessions, which are categorized by professional-experience level ranging from novice to corporate leader, as a primary reason for attending the tile and stone super show.

In addition to the featured speakers previously announced, session topics of particular interest to the fabrication community include best sustainability practices for tile and stone; a sales seminar for fabricators who hate sales; and how advancement in technology and production is resulting in never-before available tile, stone and glass.

Highlighted sessions include:

Fabricators Forum. In today’s business climate diversification is a critical step many fabricators are taking. This panel—Dustin Braudway of Bluewater Surfaces and Marco Duran of Atlas Marble and Granite, moderated by Tony Malisani of Malisani Inc.—is well versed in both residential and commercial topics and what it takes to be successful in both arenas. Costs, stone supplier relationships, collections, employee development, and meeting customer expectations are just a few of the business-related topics they’ll discuss. Tuesday, April 30, 8:00 AM – 9:30 AM.

Competing for the Future: Tools for Developing Your Team to Become World-Class Performers. An interactive presentation by Sandy Smith of Sandy Smith Seminars designed to assist small-business leaders and managers to create an organizational culture whose teams perform at a consistently high level. The content is practical in nature; participants will leave with “real world” tools to be applied at work. Monday, April 29, 8:30 AM – 10:00 AM.

Marble Use in the Kitchen. Joshua Levinson of Artistic Tile and Todd Robertson of Vermont Quarries will focus on the use of marble on kitchen countertops, a practice on the rise in the US. Attendees will learn the different protective treatments required; appreciate the unique design possibilities of using marble for countertops; and expand their ability to set the proper consumer expectations. Monday, April 29, 3:15 PM – 4:15 PM.

A Sales Seminar for Fabricators Who Hate Sales. If you are looking for more sales to help pay your overhead and generate long-term profits, then this session will provide you with a great foundation. Learn to recognize that all employees and all processes are part of the sales process and create a framework for sales within your business. Come prepared to develop strategies for sales success! Thursday, May 2, 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM.

Exotic Stones: Expectations, Issues and Resolution Tips for Fabricators. Filippo Emanuel of Tenax USA and Ron Hannah of Cadenza Corporation address the explosion of exotic stones, discussing how they are classified, and the new technology for quarrying and processing. You’ll also understand how to recognize slabs—the good and the bad—as well gain valuable insights into everything from fixing color issues and variances to edge polishing differences in colors. Thursday, May 2, 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM.

Sealing Natural Stone, Tile & Grout: Fact & Fiction. Joe Salvo of Miracle Sealants will provide the facts as to which surfaces benefit from being sealed; the difference between sealers, finishes and waxes; solvent versus water; the different protection sources used in most sealers and impregnators; how most impregnators work; how to determine effectiveness; and how to determine costs. Monday, April 29, 3:15 PM – 4:15 PM.

Managing a Successful Family Business. Working in a family business can be a challenge. Why are some businesses successful, while others struggle? What are the best practices? Moderator Tony Malisani of Malisani Inc., and panelists Michelle Goetzinger of Blume’s, and Michael and Jeremy Twiss of Columbia Stone—all family businesses—share their positive and not-so-positive experiences! Wednesday, May 1, 3:15 PM – 4:15 PM.

Other programs of particular interest to fabricators include:

• Natural Stone Tile: An Overview. Tuesday, April 30, 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM.
• Stone Testing for Dummies. Tuesday, April 30, 3:15 PM – 4:15 PM.
• Metrics for the Automated & Un-Automated Fabrication Shop. Tuesday, April 30, 3:15 PM – 4:15 PM.
• Wholesale/Slab Distributors Forum. Wednesday, May 1, 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM.
• Sustainability for Those Who Haven’t Been Paying Attention. Wednesday, May 1, 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM.
• Stone Trends 2013. Thursday, May 2, 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM.

For the full conference program go to www.coverings.com/ConferenceSchedule.

About Coverings

Coverings is the largest and most important ceramic tile and natural stone trade fair and expo in the United States. It features exhibitors from more than 50 countries and is the stage for introducing some of the most innovative tile and stone products in the world.

The exposition also serves as a valuable resource for continuing education for all segments of the industry, with more than 70 informative, accredited seminars and live demonstration sessions throughout the show, all free of charge.

Coverings attracts thousands of distributors, retailers, fabricators, contractors, specifiers, architectural and design professionals, builders and real estate developers, as well as journalists and bloggers who cover this vital and dynamic industry.

Sponsors of the show are The Ceramic Tile Distributors Association (CTDA), Tile of Spain/Spanish Ceramic Tile Manufacturer's Association (ASCER), Ceramics of Italy/Confindustria Ceramica, National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA) and The Tile Council of North America (TCNA). The show is managed by National Trade Productions.

Coverings 2013 will be held April 29-May 2, at Georgia World Congress Center, Atlanta, Georgia. For more information visit www.coverings.com or contact National Trade Productions, Coverings Show Management, 703-706-8257.

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(ALEXANDRIA, VA. – MARCH 2013)—Coverings 2013, the tile and stone industry’s largest international exposition, offers an extraordinarily wide-ranging conference program comprising more than 70 sessions, many aimed specifically at installers.

When The Ultimate Tile + Stone Experience comes to Atlanta for the first time, April 29-May 2, 2013, there will be more than 900 exhibitors showing an unrivalled range of innovative products and technologies. But installers often cite the free conference sessions, which are categorized by professional-experience level ranging from novice to corporate leader, as a primary reason for attending the tile and stone super show.

In addition to the featured speakers previously announced, session topics of particular interest to the installation community include best sustainability practices for tile and stone; installing tile and stone in remodeling projects; and how advancement in technology and production is resulting in never-before available tile, stone and glass.

Highlighted sessions include:

Innovative Technology for the Tile Trade. Join us in this new and interactive demonstration session where you will view up-close the latest in technology for the tile trade! NTCA will provide live demonstrations of the latest technologies providing attendees the chance to view, touch and ask questions. Wednesday, May 1, 1:45 PM – 2:45 PM.

Tile Council of North America: 2013 Version of the TCNA Handbook and other TCNA Initiatives. Eric Astrachan of the TCNA unveils the latest TCNA Handbook, an important document that’s used by professionals across the industry and ensures quality sales, specification and installation of tile and stone. Hear what you need to know to keep your business up-to-date and successful. Monday, April 29, 8:30 AM – 10:00 AM.

Competing for the Future: Tools for Developing Your Team to Become World-Class Performers. An interactive presentation by Sandy Smith of Sandy Smith Seminars designed to assist small-business leaders and managers to create an organizational culture whose teams perform at a consistently high level. The content is practical in nature; participants will leave with “real world” tools to be applied at work. Monday, April 29, 8:30 AM – 10:00 AM.

Marble Use in the Kitchen. Joshua Levinson of Artistic Tile and Todd Robertson of Vermont Quarries will focus on the use of marble on kitchen countertops, a practice on the rise in the US. Attendees will learn the different protective treatments required; appreciate the unique design possibilities of using marble for countertops; and expand their ability to set the proper consumer expectation. Monday, April 29, 3:15 PM – 4:15 PM.

Installing Tile and Stone in Remodeling Projects: Panel Discussion. Remodeling accounts for a large amount of tile and stone consumption and is very different from new construction in numerous ways. Tile contractors specializing in this type of work must be knowledgeable and proficient in other trades, and know how to put a team together to meet the customer’s expectations. NTCA Five Star Contractors John Cox of Cox Tile, Inc., Jan Hohn of Hohn & Hohn Tile, and Joe Kerber of Kerber Tile, Marble and Stone, will share their field experience. Tuesday, April 30, 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM.

Tools that Can Help the Tile Contractor Add Profit to the Bottom Line. Michael Whistler, NTCA Presenter/Technical Consultant, will provide live demonstrations of the latest tools, giving attendees the chance to view, touch and ask questions. Thursday, May 2, 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM.

Other programs of particular interest to installers include:

• Why Epoxy Grout and Bonding Mortars Are Essential to the Tile and Stone Industry. Monday, April 29, 1:45 PM – 2:45 PM.
• Profitable Installations with (Very) Large Format Tile. Monday, April 29, 3:15 PM – 4:15 PM.
• Thin Tile Project from Design to Completion. Tuesday, April 30, 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM.
• Understanding and Using ISO 13007-5 Liquid Waterproofing with ANSI A118.10. Tuesday, April 30, 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM.
• Contractors Forum: Concrete Substrates. Tuesday, April 30, 1:45 PM – 2:45 PM.
• The Importance of Vapor Management in Steam Room Installations. Tuesday, April 30, 3:15 PM – 4:15 PM.
• Disaster Relief: Avoiding Installation Failure with Sound Installation, Planning and Implementation. Tuesday, April 30, 3:15 PM – 4:15 PM.
• ANSI’s Response to ISO 13007. Wednesday, May 1, 1:45 PM – 2:45 PM.
• Green Squared: North America’s Standard and Certification Program for Tile Product Sustainability. Wednesday, May 1, 3:15 PM – 4:15 PM.
• Advanced Certification of Tile Installers (ACT). Wednesday, May 1, 3:15 PM – 4:15 PM.

For the full conference program go to www.coverings.com/ConferenceSchedule.

About Coverings

Coverings is the largest and most important ceramic tile and natural stone trade fair and expo in the United States. It features exhibitors from more than 50 countries and is the stage for introducing some of the most innovative tile and stone products in the world.

The exposition also serves as a valuable resource for continuing education for all segments of the industry, with more than 70 informative, accredited seminars and live demonstration sessions throughout the show, all free of charge.

Coverings attracts thousands of distributors, retailers, fabricators, contractors, specifiers, architectural and design professionals, builders and real estate developers, as well as journalists and bloggers who cover this vital and dynamic industry.

Sponsors of the show are The Ceramic Tile Distributors Association (CTDA), Tile of Spain/Spanish Ceramic Tile Manufacturer's Association (ASCER), Ceramics of Italy/Confindustria Ceramica, National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA) and The Tile Council of North America (TCNA). The show is managed by National Trade Productions.

Coverings 2013 will be held April 29-May 2, at Georgia World Congress Center, Atlanta, Georgia. For more information visit www.coverings.com or contact National Trade Productions, Coverings Show Management, 703-706-8257.

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(ALEXANDRIA, VA. – MARCH 2013)—Coverings 2013, the tile and stone industry’s largest international exposition, offers an extraordinarily wide-ranging conference program comprising over 70 free sessions, many aimed specifically at retailers.

When The Ultimate Tile + Stone Experience comes to Atlanta for the first time, April 29–May 2, 2013, there will be more than 900 exhibitors showing an unrivaled range of innovative products and technologies. But retailers often cite the free conference sessions, which are categorized by professional-experience level ranging from novice to corporate leader, as a primary reason for attending the tile and stone super show.

In addition to the featured speakers previously announced, session topics of particular interest to the retailing community include using the psychology of pricing to create the sense of a bargain for the customer; how Apple’s super-successful retailing strategies can be used in tile and stone stores; and understanding how merchandising real estate, from window displays to store floor plans, affect retail sales.

Some of the not-to-be-missed sessions include:

What Every Retailer Can Learn from Apple. Head-turning products are not the only reason Apple has so many apostles worldwide. Designed to simplify and enhance the presentation and marketing of personal computing products, Apple stores are a feast for the eye and intended to guide the intellectual and emotional experience of the customer. Nothing is left to chance, every detail matters. Then there are the people they attract as employees and the way they get them to join the “life’s work.” And, finally, there is the stellar customer service. James Dion of Dionco Inc., will explain what Apple does that you can do too: have a clear, consistent and simple vision to guide everything you do in your store. Monday, April 29, 3:15 PM – 4:15 PM.

Understanding Merchandising Real Estate. From how customers react to a store window display to how they respond to its floor plan, Nicole Reyhle of Retail Minded magazine will share the tricks of retail real estate that help increase sales. Using props, participants will experience the critical components of retail real estate through interactive display challenges, sales scenarios, and customer role-playing. Reyhle will also identify what’s worth what in regards to floor space. Attendees will have the chance to re-create their own store spaces with a hands-on game that lets them imagine their stores laid out differently. Tuesday, April 30, 3:15 – 4:45 PM.

Selling Tile: The Internet, the Industry & the Consumer. Moderator Christine Whittemore of Simple Marketing Now LLC, and panelists Steve Slutzah of Westside Tile, Bill Buyok of Avente Tile, Tom Carr of Pan American Ceramics, and Dave Milanowycz of Florida Tile discuss how the Internet is influencing the sale of tile to the consumer. From strict sale policies, to reduced prices and no sales tax, the Internet has created a new frontier for the industry to navigate. Learn from the players how this is affecting the industry and the consumer. Wednesday, May 1, 3:15 PM – 4:15 PM.

Combining Traditional Advertising/Marketing and Social Media to Build Your Marketing Plan. Smart companies are combining traditional advertising and marketing with social media, the new wave of communication. Lisbeth Calandrino of Fabulous Floors magazine will show that an effective marketing plan is only possible when you understand the differences and similarities between the two, and how they can work together to reach your goals. Tuesday, April 30, 3:15 PM – 4:15 PM.

The Psychology of Price and Why It Matters. Consumers are obsessed with price. But by some estimates there are almost half a billion dollars in unused daily deals, which is proof that for many consumers, getting a deal is more important than getting a product. Flooring retailers appeal to this consumer by slashing prices even more, which can have a significant impact on profitability. James Dion of Dionco Inc., will share at least ten alternative price strategies that don't involve lowering prices but positioning them in a way that the customers feel they got the best deal. Tuesday, April 30, 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM.

How Video Marketing Can Help Improve Your Branding and Online Marketing Efforts. Juliet Sallette of Wolf TMC shows the importance of video marketing and branding efforts, and how to use them to help generate online buzz and most importantly how to help achieve online leads and publicity by leveraging YouTube and other online marketing channels that can fit into any marketing budget. Tuesday, April 30, 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM.

Selling & Marketing Green the Easy Way. Understand green from your customer’s perspective as Paul Bumblauskas of PFC Services, Inc. take you through the seven drivers of the green decision. Using them, anyone can relate to customer needs whether you sell business to business (B2B) or business to consumer (B2C)! This green session will immediately drive more sales and profit. As an added benefit, manufacturer green programs will become more meaningful as you will be able to translate their objectives into satisfying your customers’ needs. Wednesday, May 1, 10:45 AM –11:45 AM.

How to Market your Showroom Online. Eric Edelson of Fireclay Tile gives tips on marketing your showroom online, explaining key action steps that are free or inexpensive and will ensure your company has a strong presence and that your customers will find you. The focus includes ways to ensure you have a great website, as well as basic search engine optimization and local directory strategies to make sure you company is found online. Social media and online advertising will be briefly discussed as well. Thursday, May 2, 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM.

Other programs of particular interest to retailers include:

• Competing for the Future: Tools for Developing Your Team to Become World Class Performers. Monday, April 29, 8:30 AM – 10:00 AM.
• Why Am I Being Sued When I Did Nothing Wrong? Tuesday, April 30, 3:15 PM – 4:15 PM.
• How to Build Profitable Customers Through Experience Marketing. Wednesday, May 1, 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM.
• The 10 Essentials to Selling Interior Designers and the Decorative Trade. Wednesday, May 1, 3:15 PM – 4:15 PM.
• Six Essential Strategies to Creating Passionate Customers. Thursday, May 2, 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM.
• Best Practices for a Business to Business Content Marketing Strategy. Thursday, May 2, 8:00 AM – 9:30 AM.
• Social Media and Business: Creating Content to Engage, Build and Grow Customer Relationships. Thursday, May 2, 9:30 AM –10:30 AM.

For the full conference program go to www.coverings.com/ConferenceSchedule.

About Coverings

Coverings is the largest and most important ceramic tile and natural stone trade fair and expo in the United States. It features exhibitors from more than 50 countries and is the stage for introducing some of the most innovative tile and stone products in the world.

The exposition also serves as a valuable resource for continuing education for all segments of the industry, with more than 70 informative, accredited seminars and live demonstration sessions throughout the show, all free of charge.

Coverings attracts thousands of distributors, retailers, fabricators, contractors, specifiers, architectural and design professionals, builders and real estate developers, as well as journalists and bloggers who cover this vital and dynamic industry.

Sponsors of the show are The Ceramic Tile Distributors Association (CTDA), Tile of Spain/Spanish Ceramic Tile Manufacturer's Association (ASCER), Ceramics of Italy/Confindustria Ceramica, National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA) and The Tile Council of North America (TCNA). The show is managed by National Trade Productions.

Coverings 2013 will be held April 29-May 2, at Georgia World Congress Center, Atlanta, Georgia. For more information visit www.coverings.com or contact National Trade Productions, Coverings Show Management, 703-706-8257.

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(ALEXANDRIA, VA. – FEBRUARY 2013)— Legendary designer David Rockwell and visionary editor Cindy Allen will deliver an insightful and inspirational presentation at Coverings 2013 on Wednesday, May 1, as The Ultimate Tile + Stone Experience comes to Atlanta for the first time.

Rockwell is the Founder and CEO, Rockwell Group, an award winning, cross-disciplinary architecture and design practice, headquartered in New York with offices in Madrid and Shanghai. Noted for his work on the renovation of New York’s Grand Central Terminal for which he received the Presidential Design Award, he has been inducted into Interior Design magazine’s Hall of Fame, named to Architectural Digest’s AD 100 and received wide recognition throughout the design community.

He and Interior Design editor-in-chief Cindy Allen will share their unique insights on the design world today as part of Coverings 2013 robust conference program, April 29-May 2. Allen has been lauded as “one of the most influential advocates for the interior design industry.” She is an industry champion, promoting both the giants of design and the rising stars during her 12 years at the helm of Interior Design. A self-proclaimed design junkie, she brings an unbridled passion for design to the pages of the magazine each month, offering a unique view into design and personal connections to leaders in the industry.

In addition to these two superstars, Coverings 2013 is offering a robust conference program with more than 70 not-to-be-missed sessions including five featured speakers. Recognized experts will share vital information for architects and interior designers, builders and remodelers, retailers, fabricators, installers and distributors, at all levels from beginner to expert.

Best of all there is no charge for any of these high-powered programs, many of which offer CEU credits. The conference sessions are regularly touted as one of the top reasons to attend the international tile and stone super show.

FIVE OTHER FEATURED SPEAKERS NAMED

The five featured speakers are noted author and design writer Jen Renzi, Pantone color guru Leatrice Eiseman, successful marketer and dieter Marty Gould., Lieutenant General John F. Sattler (USMC ret.), and healthcare reform expert Gene Marks.

Jen Renzi, author of The Art of Tile, will unveil Trends in Tile: Boundary-Breaking New Looks, New Innovations and New Materials for Indoors and Out on Tuesday, April 30 from 1:45 PM - 2:45 PM.

She reports that advancements in cutting-edge digital technology and the revival of artisanal processes have collided to transform both the look and application of tile, creating limitless opportunities for designers—and opening up new channels for customization.

Super thin, super thick, super small, super sized—even the basic structure of tile—has been pushed to extremes, expanding how and where tile can be installed. And the industry has become a hotbed of innovation, with some of the brightest design luminaries and hottest talents—Philippe Starck, Patricia Urquiola, and Raw Edges among them—teaming with top manufacturers.

Renzi, a design writer for leading publications such as Interior Design, The Wall Street Journal and House Beautiful, will dig deep into these exciting advancements, from tiles that can be installed without adhesives to chic encaustics and the continued refinement of stone-like porcelain and faux-wood planks.

Extending far beyond the traditional applications, Renzi will share cutting-edge residential and commercial installations from across the globe. Her talk will also demonstrate how the latest tile trends dovetail with broader cultural shifts, and address how manufacturers have committed to making their products greener than ever before.

Pantone Color Institute guru Leatrice Eiseman will delve into Style, Substance and Color: Major Trends and Directions on Monday, April 29 from 1:45 PM – 2:45 PM.

As Eiseman points out, now more than ever it is critical to be aware of future trends as consumers seek distinctive styling and considerable substance. Most important, colors and combinations must be appealing, evocative, transformative and on-target.

Eiseman, author of eight books on color, leading color forecaster and executive director of the Pantone Color Institute, will explain the directional trends that help professionals connect with their targeted customers/clients. She will lead attendees through the multiplicity of resources that inform color and design directions in this complex and information-laden world.

LEADERSHIP AND ETHICS

Another issue facing professionals in today’s complex world is the question of what it takes to be a leader, and what role does ethics play in leadership? In his inspirational presentation, Leadership and Ethics at 9:15 AM - 10:45 AM on Wednesday, May 1, Lieutenant General John F. Sattler (USMC ret.) delves into these thought-provoking subjects, sharing his experience both on and off the battlefield.

Currently, LtGen Sattler serves as the Leadership Chairman in the Vice Admiral James Stockdale Ethical Leadership Center at the US Naval Academy. He has had a decorated career, serving as Director of Strategic Plans and Policy, the Joint Staff; Commanding General of First Marine Expeditionary Force; and Commander, Marine Corps Forces Central Command.

With health care reform on the horizon, business owners face many unknowns. Gene Marks, The Marks Group, will provide answers in his session Healthcare Reform is Reality: How Smart Businesses are Preparing for the Affordable Care Act. Speaking at 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM on Tuesday, April 30, Marks will identify 10 significant issues that a business owner needs to consider when projecting his or her company’s health care expenditures over the next few years. He’ll look at tax effects of this legislation, both corporate and professionally, and discuss the ins and outs of the new exchanges coming into place.

One health issue nearly every business owner struggles with these days is their weight. At the same time, they struggle with their marketing. Surprisingly both issues can be addressed with the same seven-step process. In his session on Wednesday, May 1 from 3:15 PM - 4:15 PM, Marty Gould, Focalize Now, will divulge these seven steps in The Marketing Diet: How to Improve Your Marketing & Lose Weight!

Gould speaks from experience. A marketing consultant and business owner for nearly 30 years, he lost more than 60 pounds following these seven steps, from which he developed a similar program to transform any company into a lean, mean marketing machine. Attendees will come away from this session with a plan for creating better marketing, and a better you!

As a bonus, everyone at the presentation will receive free a 90-day healthy eating plan developed by Gould’s own personal trainer, the legendary Billy Beck III, a $99 value.

Coverings attendees will have a lot on their plates thanks to the abundant selection of educational opportunities served up on the full 2013 Conference Program. For more information, or to register for Coverings at no cost go to www.coverings.com.

About Coverings

Coverings is the largest and most important ceramic tile and natural stone trade fair and expo in the United States. It features exhibitors from more than 50 countries and is the stage for introducing some of the most innovative tile and stone products in the world.

The exposition also serves as a valuable resource for continuing education for all segments of the industry, with more than 70 informative, accredited seminars and live demonstration sessions throughout the show, all free of charge.

Coverings attracts thousands of distributors, retailers, fabricators, contractors, specifiers, architectural and design professionals, builders and real estate developers, as well as journalists and bloggers who cover this vital and dynamic industry.

Sponsors of the show are The Ceramic Tile Distributors Association (CTDA), Tile of Spain/Spanish Ceramic Tile Manufacturers’ Association (ASCER), Ceramics of Italy/Confindustria Ceramica, National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA) and the Tile Council of North America (TCNA). The show is managed by National Trade Productions.

Coverings 2013 will be held April 29-May 2 at the Georgia World Congress Center, Atlanta, GA. For more information visit www.coverings.com or contact National Trade Productions, Coverings Show Management, 703-683-8500.

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(ALEXANDRIA, VA. –NOVEMBER 2012)— Coverings 2013, The Ultimate Tile + Stone Experience, has announced a call for entries for two of its most acclaimed programs, PROJECT: Green and the Coverings Installation & Design (CID) Awards. 

“With these two programs, Coverings is proud to recognize excellence in the entire tile and stone community by saluting professionals for their design creativity, craftsmanship and environmental stewardship,” said Karin Fendrich, Coverings show director. “Recognition of the projects selected for PROJECT: Green and winners for CID Awards has become a much-anticipated highlight of the show.” 

PROJECT: Green recognizes sustainable new and remodeled commercial, institutional and residential projects featuring tile and stone. The program, now in its fourth year, is open to architects, designers, builders, contractors, distributors, retailers, manufacturers and installers. Projects must have been completed within the past two years and may be located within the United States or internationally. 

The independent panel of judges will evaluate projects based on such criteria as positive environmental impact, environmental innovation, aesthetic design, and use of tile/stone products with environmental benefits such as recycled or low VOC materials. Deadline for entries is January 18, 2013. Selected projects will be showcased at Coverings in Atlanta, April 29-May 2, 2013. 

The CID Awards honor achievements in outstanding design and installation of tile and stone in residential and commercial projects. Architects, designers, builders, contractors, distributors, retailers, installers and other professionals are invited to enter projects located within, or outside of, North America. New for 2013 a category has been established for international firms submitting projects. 

Projects are judged on design and installation excellence, giving special recognition to unusual, creative and innovative uses of stone and tile. 

The deadline for entries is February 8, 2013. Winners will be announced at the CID Awards Reception & Ceremony on Monday, April 29 at Coverings at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, Georgia. If winners are unable to attend, the project will be disqualified and a new winner will be awarded. International category entrants are encouraged to attend but attendance is not mandatory. 

To enter PROJECT: Green and the CID Awards go to www.coverings.com. 

There is no fee to visit Coverings or to enter either of these awards. And unlike many other shows, there is no charge to attend almost 70 informative educational sessions either. Professionals can register online at www.coverings.com.

About Coverings

Coverings is the largest and most important ceramic tile and natural stone trade fair and expo in the United States. It features exhibitors from more than 50 countries and is the stage for introducing some of the most innovative tile and stone products in the world.

The exposition also serves as a valuable resource for continuing education for all segments of the industry, with more than 70 informative, accredited seminars and live demonstration sessions throughout the show, all free of charge.

Coverings attracts thousands of distributors, retailers, fabricators, contractors, specifiers, architectural and design professionals, builders and real estate developers, as well as journalists and bloggers who cover this vital and dynamic industry.

Sponsors of the show are The Ceramic Tile Distributors Association (CTDA), Tile of Spain/Spanish Ceramic Tile Manufacturer's Association (ASCER), Ceramics of Italy/Confindustria Ceramica, National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA) and The Tile Council of North America (TCNA). The show is managed by National Trade Productions.

Coverings 2013 will be held April 29-May 2, at Georgia World Congress Center, Atlanta, Georgia. For more information visit www.coverings.com or contact National Trade Productions, Coverings Show Management, 703-683-8500.

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(ALEXANDRIA, VA. – OCTOBER 2012)—Registration is now open online for Coverings 2013, sure to be the most exciting tile and stone super show ever, as the Ultimate Tile + Stone Experience comes to Atlanta for the first time in its 20+ year history. Coverings is on track to have more than 900 exhibitors from more than 50 countries when it opens at the Georgia World Congress Center on April 29 through May 2, 2013.

By registering early for Coverings, attendees will benefit from advance notice about events and conference sessions, plus contests and giveaways. In addition, visitors have immediate access to the best hotel discount packages arranged by Coverings at hotels such as the Atlanta Marriott Marquis, Hilton Atlanta, Omni Hotel at CNN Center and the Westin Peachtree Plaza. Rooms are sure to go fast, so it pays to book early.

Those who registered online previously will find it especially quick and easy to register this year, now that their preferences and information are already in the system.

There is no fee to visit Coverings. And unlike many other shows, there is no charge to attend almost 70 informative educational sessions either.

“Coverings offers an incredible value,” says Show Director Karin Fendrich of National Trade Productions, the show management company for Coverings. “There is no other place where every segment of the tile and stone industry— including architects, designers and other specifiers, tile and stone showrooms and retailers, wholesalers, installers and contractors, and builders and developers— can see the latest products and installation techniques and, at the same time, attend valuable CEU sessions, workshops and demonstrations.”

A prospective attendee could even win a free trip to Coverings by entering the Coverings Facebook Peach Photo Contest. Go to facebook.com/CoveringsShow for details on photographing yourself with the Coverings peach in front of an inspiring tile or stone location, or relevant industry location.

The local design and building community is enthusiastically welcoming Coverings to Atlanta for the first time, with many associations supporting the event with co-sponsorships, among them ASID, AIA, IIDA and NKBA.

Shawn C. Alshut, principal of studio A2 and president of ASID Georgia, attended Coverings last year: “I was blown away by the show. I need at least two days there to see all the exhibits and attend the conference sessions.”

“We are looking forward to the Coverings event here in Atlanta," said Cynthia Hovorka, President, IIDA Georgia, and interior designer at Hughes Litton Godwin. “It's a unique opportunity for the design community to get updated on the latest trends in tile and stone and talk to the top experts in the field.”

"I'm looking forward to attending Coverings to learn more about what's new in the dynamic world of tile and stone," commented Brittany S. Gardner, CKD, VP- Academic Relations, NKBA Georgia Chapter. “There's so much to see at the show and, as a kitchen and bath professional, it's important that I stay on top of both the latest products and installation techniques.”

For free online registration or for information about exhibiting, go to www.coverings.com.

About Coverings

Coverings is the largest and most important ceramic tile and natural stone trade fair and expo in the United States. It features exhibitors from more than 50 countries and is the stage for introducing some of the most innovative tile and stone products in the world.

The exposition also serves as a valuable resource for continuing education for all segments of the industry, with more than 70 informative, accredited seminars and live demonstration sessions throughout the show, all free of charge.

Coverings attracts thousands of distributors, retailers, fabricators, contractors, specifiers, architectural and design professionals, builders and real estate developers, as well as journalists and bloggers who cover this vital and dynamic industry.

Sponsors of the show are The Ceramic Tile Distributors Association (CTDA), Tile of Spain/Spanish Ceramic Tile Manufacturers’ Association (ASCER), Ceramics of Italy/Confindustria Ceramica, National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA) and The Tile Council of North America (TCNA). The show is managed by National Trade Productions.

Coverings 2013 will be held April 29-May 2 at the Georgia World Congress Center, Atlanta, GA. For more information visit www.coverings.com or contact National Trade Productions, Coverings Show Management, 703-683-8500.

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