News & Events

June 2009

SUCCESS AT COVERINGS.

SUCCESS AT
COVERINGS.

Coverings is an international tradeshow for tile offering the latest styles and trends in ceramic tile and natural stone. Celebrating 20 years, the annual conference has become the most significant show in the U.S. to exhibit, exceptional floor and wall coverings. Among the exhibitors, nearly 50 countries
were present, while tens of thousands of attendees showed up to walk the endless aisles of product.

This tile and stone expo was held April 21-24 at McCormick Place in Chicago, IL. The turnout was low this year, due to the severe down turned economy, with around 22,000 attendees - approximately 35,000 were expected. Exhibitor participation was also disappointing, with only 700 booths present out of 1,300 pre-sold. There were fewer foreign exhibitors and greater numbers of U.S. stocked manufacturers. Dubbed, “The ultimate tile and stone experience”, those who attended found the show full of exciting products, educational seminars and live demonstrations. The green movement and the depressed economy were among the 59 seminars offered, such as “Forecasting the US Ceramic Tile Market” by Donato Grosser and “Tile Industry Green Initiative” by TCNA.

All seminars are available on CD and can be found online at
www.Coverings.com/Conference. Among some of the hottest trends in the tile industry, conference-goers noticed an overwhelming number of thin, 4.25mm tiles intended for covering facades and interior flooring. Large format tiles of 12x24 and larger continued their popularity and growth. Many vendors had unique looks — some with the appearance of fabric, animal hide and organic material. Grays and dark blues were
popular colors across the board. The look of marble, but the practicality and durability of porcelain tile, continued to be the story. Tone on tone, screen printed floral patterns on textured surfaces were another beautiful trend.