Coverings 2012 Conference Brochure Single Pages by Jamie Hill

Coverings 2012 Conference Program & Event Guide

be informed.

be successful. be at coverings. April 17â&#x20AC;&#x201C;20, 2012 â&#x20AC;˘ Orlando, Florida, USA Orange County Convention Center

www.coverings.com

Find unlimited potential for your business at

Coverings 2012

The Ultimate Tile + Stone Experience returns to Orlando with the bold designs, brilliant techniques and bright ideas that you need to enhance your tile and stone business.

This April you will: BE AMAZED by the 800+ global exhibitors showcasing the latest tile and stone trends. BE CONNECTED to thousands of industry peers and share experiences and solutions that work. BE INSPIRED by the 100+ industry experts speaking in nearly 70 FREE targeted education sessions. BE GREEN and explore the expanding green marketplace and the role of tile and stone in sustainable building and construction.

Coverings 2012 Conference Program & Event Guide

Whether you are a specifier, builder, remodeler, distributor, manufacturer, fabricator, installer, contractor or retailer, you will find everything you need to enhance your tile and stone expertise at Coverings 2012 in Orlando, Florida.

what’s inside: What’s Your Specialty?..........................................3–4 Special Programs..................................................5–6 Featured Sessions................................................7–8 2012 Conference Program..................................9–22 Coverings Green Certificate Program...................... 18 Social Media.......................................................... 22 General Information............................................... 23 Hotel and Travel Information.................................. 24 2012 Exhibitor List........................................... 25–26

AND REMEMBER,

IT’S ALL FREE! REGISTER NOW AT WWW.COVERINGS.COM. Register online for free at www.coverings.com

WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S YOUR SPECIALTY No matter what role you have in the world of tile + stone,

Coverings covers it all. Architect BE INSPIRED by the new formats, shapes and installation methods on display by the 800 global exhibitors at Coverings 2012. Earn credits toward AIA and state licensing and certification requirements and choose from dozens of FREE sessions created specifically for architects.

Builder/Remodeler BE MOTIVATED by the new and unconventional uses of tile and stone for kitchens, baths, patios, entries, pools, spas and so much more. From interior and outdoor to residential and commercial, Coverings showcases the tile and stone types for all applications.

Designer BE AMAZED by the incredible tile and stone designs and vignettes at Coverings 2012. Plus, learn and earn with free training and seminars to help add more green to your bottom line, most with ASID/IDCEC and NKBA accreditation.

Distributor BE PROSPEROUS and negotiate influential deals face-to-face with your suppliers to increase profits and grow your business. In just one location over four action-packed days, you can shop a global exhibition of hard surfaces at every price point to make your showroom a success.

Coverings 2012 Conference Program & Event Guide

ECIALTY?

Fabricator BE INFORMED and join your colleagues at the largest stone and fabricating event in North America. Only at Coverings can you evaluate and compare thousands of stone products, machinery and fabricating equipment while also attending free education and training programs.

Installer BE CTEF CERTIFIED and update your technical and project management skills at dozens of educational seminars — all for FREE! Stop by the Live Installation Demonstrations and the Installation Design Showcase, both right on the show floor, and discover new methods and techniques to try in your next install.

Retailer BE SUCCESSFUL in today’s challenging marketplace by learning about innovative retail strategies to drive results, maximize profits and bring customers into your showroom. Coverings is the only event where you and your entire team can benefit from the free business-building resources on the show floor and in the sessions.

“ Coverings is vital to stay current with the latest trends, styles, information and education in the tile industry.”

~ Nyle Wadford, President, Neuse Tile Service Inc.

BE ENLIGHTENED SPECIAL Coverings Central New for 2012, be at the center of it all at Coverings Central. Stop by this interactive and vibrant area on the show floor and attend social media sessions, check your email in the Internet station, learn about both Coverings 2012 AND 2013, view the PROJECT: Green display, enjoy a refreshment at the bar and relax with your colleagues.

2012 CID Awards (Coverings Installation and Design Awards)

The CID Awards combine elements of the past Spectrum and Prism Awards together with the TileLetter & NTCA Installation Awards, which will honor achievement in the outstanding use of tile and stone and the synergy between installation and design. The CID Awards will spotlight contractor/designer teams who have the demonstrated talent and skills to bring to life an exceptional aesthetic vision. Attend the CID Awards Reception on Thursday, April 19, at Coverings 2012. Learn more at www.coverings.com/CID. Sponsored by

and

Installation Design Showcase For a third year, the Installation Design Showcase is a must-see attraction. See what happens when leading installers and designers are partnered together and collaborate to showcase the synergy between great design and installation. Watch a master bathroom, an outdoor living space and a hotel bedroom be created from inception to completion right on the show floor, and meet with participants to discuss the project and why the particular design and materials were chosen. Each space will highlight a different design aesthetic and feature tile and stone in a live installation.

DESIGNERS Foreman Rogers

Grant Gribble

Sponsored by:

Coverings 2012 Conference Program & Event Guide

Joan DesCombes

ADVA

NCED

PRO

BY THESE FREE PROGRAMS! PROJECT: Green PROJECT: Green is back and bigger than ever for Coverings 2012! Visit www.coverings.com/project_green to learn more PROJECT: Green and stop by the PROJECT: Green display onsite in Coverings Central and see the chosen sustainability projects featuring tile and stone. Sponsored by:

Must-See Live Demonstrations One of the most popular features at Coverings, these live “how-to” classes offer you an up-close look at how top contracting pros handle a variety of challenging tile installations. These interactive sessions are sponsored by the Tile Council of North America (TCNA) and the National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA).

Art Tile Village The Art Tile Village is a popular destination at Coverings year after year. Located in the Tile Council of North America pavilion, this space is dedicated to artisans who keep old world traditions alive by crafting handmade art and specialty tiles. You will find one-of-a-kind decorative tiles and accents that will give any project that distinctive and unique touch.

The Stone Fabricators Alliance The Stone Fabricators Alliance (SFA) is an organization dedicated to the education of the fabricator. The SFA will be presenting ongoing demonstrations and educational “how-to” topics in their booth that are specifically designed for fabricators and installers. Join SFA for afternoon happy hours and tool raffle giveaways on April 17 and 18.

Educational Workshops Join your colleagues for these extended learning opportunities on Friday, April 20, from 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM. Choose to attend one of three two-hour interactive workshops, each of which will provide you the chance to share with peers and walk away with real-world knowledge. Just like all sessions at Coverings, these workshops are completely FREE. Register online for free at www.coverings.com

BE EMPOWERED. ATTEND COVERINGS

Coverings is the best educational and purchasing event in 2012 will empower and educate you and maybe

TUESDAY, APRIL 17

1:30 PM–2:30 PM

8:30 AM–10:00 AM

Future Color Trends: Fantasies and Realities

Marketing an Installation Company: The Web is Your Best Marketing Tool Moderator: Christine Whittemore Panelists: Amber Fox, Wirtz Quality Installations; Martin Howard, David Allen Company; Paige Smith, Neuse Tile Service; Dan Welch, Welch Tile and Marble; Chris Woelfel, Artcraft Granite Marble & Tile Christine Whittemore is owner of Simple Marketing Now LLC, and a proven marketing consultant with expertise in the floor covering industry. She has been working with several tile contracting companies for over a year in assessing their social media campaigns and will moderate a discussion with these companies in which actual tile installation firms can show the audience what they are doing in this crucial area of marketing.

“ What I really enjoy about Coverings is all the free education sessions — you learn so much in a short amount of time. It really helped me get my new business off the ground.”

~ John Mourelatos, Owner, Mourelatos Tile Inc.

Speaker: Leatrice Eiseman, Eiseman and Associates In order to create the “magic” in the marketplace that ultimately leads to sales, colors for 2013 will need to coax and cajole, soothe or astonish, renew and replenish. At the same time, there will be the consumer’s expectation of practicality — what colors have staying power and can be relied upon as a steadying influence in unsteady times. Skillfully balanced color palettes that play to their practical side, while satisfying their aspirations, hopes and needs for something novel will remain key to enticing the would-be consumer or client.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 18 9:15 AM–10:15 AM

How to Prosper in the “New Normal” — Strategies for Navigating the Terrain During Turbulent Times Speaker: Sandy Smith, Sandy Smith Seminars Discover innovative ways of leading and thriving “in spite of” exponential change, increased customer expectations and a volatile international economy. Sandy Smith will spell out the kind of mindset and skill set required to compete in today’s “whitewater” business environment.

Coverings 2012 Conference Program & Event Guide

BE INFORMED. FEATURED SESSIONS. North America. The FREE Featured Sessions at Coverings even change the way you view your industry.

THURSDAY, APRIL 19

1:30 PM–2:30 PM

9:15 AM–10:15 AM

The State of the Union: Architectural Trends & Influences

Reinventing Your Organization…Tools for Leaders/Managers to Develop and Retain Talent in Uncertain Times

Facilitator: Marc Kushner, Architizer.com

Speaker: Sandy Smith, Sandy Smith Seminars Learn practical and proven methods for creating an organizational culture of “peak performers” who are highly engaged and committed to each other’s success.

9:15 AM–10:45 AM

Open for Business: Why Transparency is Mandatory in the Online Marketing Age Speaker: Marty Gould, Focalize Now The Internet has empowered customers. They’re now in charge, dictating all aspects of the sales process, from what they’ll pay to how and when products and services are packaged and delivered. As home buying and remodeling customers emerge from the worst recession in nearly a century, their mindsets are permanently altered. The information they seek is more than research; it’s the test they put each and every business through to see if they meet a high standard of trustworthiness. The more open the business, the more likely it will pass the test. NOTE: Marty Gould works with many stone and tile companies and relates this important topic to our industry.

Join Marc Kushner, founder of Architizer.com, to continue the lively discussion he has created online. With panelists recruited from the Architizer community, Kushner will moderate an interactive session in which the latest trends and influences in architecture across various vertical categories, such as retail, education and health care, will be examined. It promises to be a dynamic program with an exchange of ideas, opinions and involvement from audience members as well.

2:45 PM–3:45 PM

Triple Your Profit! Stop Being a Profit Soldier and Start Being a Profit Winner Speaker: Albert Bates, Profit Planning Group Dr. Albert Bates, popular speaker and professional author on profit planning for small businesses, has penned a new book titled Triple Your Profit! Stop Being a Profit Soldier and Start Being a Profit Winner. The book is a practical business training and online template for hard working business owners and managers. Triple Your Profit! is a four-part Profit Improvement System that offers a step-by-step plan to drive higher return on your bottom line. Twenty-one profit improvement exhibits will show how every concept works in your company. A planning template to quickly and easily develop a high-profit plan is included.

2012 CONFERENCE PROGRAM

For 2012, Coverings has constructed its most exciting lineup of comprehensive tile and stone seminars, panel discussions and hands-on courses to date. With nearly 70 sessions presented by the most dynamic presenters and original thinkers in the industry, you will find everything you need to be informed, be successful and be the strongest competitor in your market. Note: Sessions are as of December 19, 2011, and are subject to change. Visit www.coverings.com/conference for the most up-to-date information.

Earn Continuing Education at Coverings 2012!

Use these symbols as your guide through the Coverings 2012 Conference Program: Architect

Earn continuing education units (CEUs) by attending Coverings conference sessions. Coverings is an AIA/CES Approved Provider and a NKBA CEU Provider Partner. Check www.coverings.com and the onsite Show Directory for the most up-to-date information on continuing education for architects and designers. CEU forms will be available onsite. Certificates of completion may be requested and will be mailed post-show.

Coverings 2012 Conference Program & Event Guide

Builder/Remodeler Designer Distributor Fabricator Installer Retailer Green Conference Program Green Certificate Program

Coverings offers the most in-depth tile and stone education program in the Americas —

and it’s ALL FREE! TUESDAY, APRIL 17

Future Color Trends: Fantasies and Realities

8:30 AM–10:00 AM

Speaker: Leatrice Eiseman, Eiseman and Associates

Marketing an Installation Company: The Web is Your Best Marketing Tool

Experience Level: All

Moderator: Christine Whittemore Panelists: Amber Fox, Wirtz Quality Installations; Martin Howard, David Allen Company; Paige Smith, Neuse Tile Service; Dan Welch, Welch Tile and Marble; Chris Woelfel, Artcraft Granite Marble & Tile Experience Level: All See page 7 for description.

See page 7 for description.

2:45 PM–3:45 PM Thinset Stone Tile vs. Thickset Stone Pavers Speaker: Chuck Muehlbauer, Marble Institute of America

9:15 AM–10:15 AM

Experience Level: Mid-Level/Leader

Providing CEUs to Architects & Designers About Natural Stone Speaker: James Hieb, Marble Institute of America Experience Level: Mid-Level Want to expand your outreach to architects and interior designers? Have you ever had a difficult time getting an appointment at a large firm in your area? Consider providing CEUs (continuing education units) to the design community. This session will showcase how the CEU programs work (AIA, ASID, IDC, IDEC, IIDA, NKBA and others), how to position your company as the leading expert on natural stone in your marketplace, and how to get started giving presentations.

Where is the line drawn between these two systems? When does the speed and economy of thinsetting give way to the performance of the heavier component pavement system? Is the decision based on the building type, the occupant loading, the service life or all three? This seminar will focus on the key parameters that need to be evaluated to answer these questions. Discussion will include costs, systems, performance and limitations of both.

Key Elements of a Quality Tile Company Speakers: Tile Contractors Association of America and National Tile Contractors Association Experience Level: Leader

1:30 PM–2:30 PM Tile Tips: Five Minute Demos Moderator: Bart Bettiga, NTCA Presenters: Gerald Sloan, NTCA; Michael Whistler, NTCA

The two leading associations representing installation companies in the U.S. will explore the importance of installation excellence and competency to perform the scope of work required on a project. Specific attention will be paid to company recognition, as well as individual skills training and certification.

Experience Level: All Ever wondered how to install glass tile? What is the proper method for grouting? NTCA will present quick, five-minute live demos of these and other installation methods, including large format tile, proper troweling and mixing, and more. Don’t miss out on your opportunity to see how it’s done and get your questions answered! Register online for free at www.coverings.com

2012 CONFERENCE PROGRAM

Construction Leadership from A to Z

Ceramic Tile: An Eco-Logical Solution

Speaker: Wally Adamchik, Firestarter Speaking and Consulting

Speaker: Ryan Fasan, Professional Attention to Tile Installation

Experience Level: Leader

Experience Level: Mid-Level

There are many aspects and angles to leadership. This session, based on the new book with the same title, will look at some of these angles. Which ones? That depends on you, the audience. As you walk into the session, you will choose from a list of 26 different words from “attitude” to “zeal.” The words you choose will be the ones we talk about in the session. Call it a design-build session on leadership, but no matter what you call it, you get the information you need when you want it.

As one of the oldest cladding materials, ceramic tile inherently has a strong sustainable story. Unfortunately, early green building programs have overlooked it as a preferred green material for various reasons. This session will delve into the many natural benefits ceramic tile provides as a cladding material to illustrate just how green a choice it has always been. We will explore how ceramics currently fit within green building platforms such as LEED and propose the possibility of improving upon existing programs with more thought for durable hard surfaces. Ceramic tile is one of the fastest innovating industries in the building sector, and new technology is creating new opportunities for greener buildings on a yearly basis.

Change is Not in the Rearview Mirror Speaker: Lisbeth Calandrino, Fabulous Floors Magazine Experience Level: Leader Sure, everyone knows that if their business is going to survive, it will have to change. But how will it change if you’re still fighting the battle the same way? In times of economic challenge, businesses have often looked to the past for solutions. Times were simpler, communication was predictable (we sent letters or made phone calls) and we were able to “spend” our way out. These days, the change is startling and new technology is leaving many of us with our feet planted firmly in yesterday. Some are still yearning for the simplicity of the “good old days.”

The Five Pillars of Selling Value at Full Margin Speaker: Chris Ramey, Affluent Insights Experience Level: Leader Stop discounting and start making more money! During this hour, we’ll address merchandising, marketing and pricing techniques to allow you to make full margin without having to break price.

2:45 pM–4:30 pM Stone Trends 2012

Color Decoded: How Color Combinations and Finishes are Integrated to Create a Fully Cohesive Design Speaker: Feras Irikat, Oceanside Glasstile Experience Level: Mid-Level Join Feras Irikat, design director for Oceanside Glasstile and Mandala, as he examines the impact of light, vision and texture on color in the design environment. Feras will lead a presentation outlining the basics of color theory and psychology followed by an engaging discussion of how materials such as wood, textiles, glass and ceramics are fully integrated to create and define cohesive, beautiful spaces.

Speaker: Vince Marazita, Marazita & Associates Experience Level: New to Profession/Mid-Level From countertops to skyscrapers, the use of natural stone is a well accepted building material in the U.S. Especially in these lean construction years, it is crucial to understand the direction of the market for dimensional stone. Get an overall view of the market and market trends by attending this 14th annual “State of the Industry” presentation on the dimensional stone market in the U.S. This session will cover information, sourcing, marketing and application trends in the stone industry over the last year, including examples of award winning projects that have been recognized for their use of natural stone.

Coverings 2012 Conference Program & Event Guide

wednesDAY, APRIL 18

Effective Discipline Speaker: Wally Adamchik, Firestarter Speaking and Consulting

8:00 AM–9:00 AM

Experience Level: Leader

Tile: From Decorative to Sustainable Speakers: Michael P. Johnson, Michael P. Johnson Design Studio; Lira Luis, Atelier Lira Luis, LLC Experience Level: Mid-Level The earliest usage of tile was for flooring. The need for sophisticated decorations in buildings inspired advancements in tile manufacturing processes. The realization that floor tiles would be too delicate for heavy usage led to it becoming a decorative wall element. In contrast, we have seen century old buildings inlaid with it, proving its longevity and strength. This session will introduce participants to the evolution of advancements in tile products beyond the traditional usage. Participants will identify strategies to help them find appropriate products and components that will lead to greater building efficiencies. One of the best ways to achieve a sustainable building using tile is to leverage it beyond the decorative.

The Evolution of Grout Technology Part I Speakers: Leigh Hightower, Mapei Corporation; Art Mintie, Laticrete International; Gerald Sloan, NTCA; Michael Whistler, NTCA; Jim Whitfield, Merkrete Experience Level: Mid-Level/Leader Representatives from both NTCA and MMSA will examine the evolution of grout technology, looking at cementitious, epoxy, modified epoxy, urethane and lightweight grouts. Discussion will include live demonstrations.

Discipline is one of the hardest tasks supervisors and managers face, and doing it effectively requires a balance of skills. This session will help managers learn effective techniques that address the problem behavior and focus on solutions while avoiding defensive/destructive responses. Learn how to preserve the individual’s self-respect and encourage the best kind of discipline — self-discipline.

15 Commandments to Effectively Market and Sell to Generation Y Speaker: Chris Ramey, Affluent Insights Experience Level: Leader Selling to Generation Y requires new marketing strategies and techniques, different merchandising and a new point of view. The values of each generation are defined by their influences when they were raised. Gen Y was born with a computer on their lap, a smartphone in their hands and music blasting through their earplugs. They think differently about the world, their homes, shopping and what they deserve. The Internet is their sixth sense and they’re not loyal. This important presentation will dissect their needs, wants, values and shopping habits. Now is the time to prepare for the new Gen Y customer.

Green Squared — The New Definition of “Green Tile” Speakers: Bill Griese, TCNA; Dan Marvin, Florida Tile Experience Level: All The ANSI 138.1 committee has been hard at work developing the Green Squared standard for ceramic tile systems. This presentation will outline what is included in the standard and what it means to be a “Green Squared Certified” tile or installation product.

2012 CONFERENCE PROGRAM 8:00 AM–10:15 AM Fabricators Forum Moderator: GK Naquin, Stone Interiors Panelists: Matt Laliberte, Ripano Stoneworks Ltd.; Tony Malisani, Malisani Inc.; Joey Marcella, Mario & Son Experience Level: All This open forum is designed for fabricators to get answers to questions or problems they may have with regard to being successful in today’s economy. In today’s business climate, diversification is a critical step many fabricators are taking. The panelists are 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 that will be part of the panel discussion.

9:15 AM–10:15 AM

Glass Tile Installations: All Shapes and Sizes Speaker: Greg Andrews, Greg Andrews Tile, Inc. Experience Level: Mid-Level This is a comprehensive seminar on glass tile installation and will review the various types of glass tile on the market today and also delve into the installation challenges that contractors face. We will discuss proper substrate preparation, a variety of installation materials available today, installation techniques, cutting techniques and realistic limitations regarding glass tile for the end-user. In conjunction with the lecture, various hands-on demonstrations will be ongoing to illustrate various key points.

Managing a Successful Family Business Moderator: Scott Lardner, Rocky Mountain Stone Speakers: Nick & Nicholas Powers, Metro Stone Works, LLC; Mike & Jeremy Twiss, Columbia Stone Experience Level: All

Wholesale/Slab Distributors Forum Moderator: Jonathan Zanger, Walker Zanger Panelists: Saket Hans, OHM International; Rupish Shah, MS International; Roy Viana, Daltile Experience Level: All Back by popular demand! Join us 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, dealing with freight issues and much more.

Working in a family business can be a challenge. Why are some businesses successful, while others struggle? What are the best practices? Join a panel of stone professionals from three different family businesses as they share their experiences. Plan on joining this robust Q&A session!

“ The educational forums provide essential information specific to installation of products and management of our businesses. Coverings is the most important industry event and I encourage all associated with our industry to attend.”

The Evolution of Grout Technology Part II Speakers: Leigh Hightower, Mapei Corporation; Art Mintie, Laticrete International; Gerald Sloan, NTCA; Michael Whistler, NTCA; Jim Whitfield, Merkrete Experience Level: Mid-Level/Leader In this continuation to Part I, representatives from both NTCA and MMSA will continue their examination of the evolution of grout technology with their in-depth discussion of cementitious, epoxy, modified epoxy, urethane and lightweight grouts. Discussion will include live demonstrations.

Coverings 2012 Conference Program & Event Guide

~ Jack Knies, Director, East Cost Tile Imports, TileAmerica

How to Prosper in the “New Normal” — Strategies for Navigating the Terrain During Turbulent Times

PROJECT: Green — Sustainable Tile and Stone

Speaker: Sandy Smith, Sandy Smith Seminars

Moderator: Derrick Teal, ED+C magazine Panelists: PROJECT: Green Finalists

Experience Level: All

See page 7 for description.

PROJECT: Green highlights sustainable projects that feature tile and stone from the past two years. Selected projects for 2012 will be showcased onsite in the PROJECT: Green display in Coverings Central. This session, moderated by ED+C, will bring together representatives from the selected projects to discuss how they were able to successfully use sustainable and green tile and stone in their residential, commercial or institutional projects. Lessons learned and helpful tips will also be shared — all are welcome to attend!

Tile Trends: Future Forecast Speaker: Stacy Garcia, Stacy Garcia, Inc. Experience Level: All Every day, new technology and new trends are changing the way architects and designers specify tile for use indoors and out. Stacy Garcia will present upcoming trends, colors and influences that will impact architectural installations in residential and commercial projects. Join us for this session to learn the art of trend forecasting, its relevance, and drivers behind the evolution of trends. Stacy will provide a glimpse into 2013 trends predicted by her studio.

1:30 PM–2:30 PM TCNA Handbook Methods in Five Minutes or Less

Selling Your Project to Customers Using Google SketchUp

Speakers: John Cox, Cox Tile; Bill Griese, TCNA; Gerald Sloan, NTCA; Nyle Wadford, Neuse Tile Service; Dan Welch, Welch Tile; Michael Whistler, NTCA; Stephanie Samulski, TCNA; James Woelfel, ArtCraft Granite, Marble & Tile Co.

Speaker: Alex Oliver, Igloo Studios

Experience Level: All

10:30 AM–11:30 AM

Experience Level: Mid-Level/Leader Nothing replaces seeing, touching and feeling real-life samples of tile or stone. But some customers have trouble visualizing what that sample will look like in their kitchen or bathroom. That’s where the free 3D design software, Google SketchUp, comes into play. Learn how Google SketchUp can help you visualize and sell your tile or stone vision to your customers. This session will introduce you to the basics of using the program; teach you how to download free product catalogs to add finishes to your designs; and create stunning presentations that literally help you sell your project better than anything else you’ve tried.

This fast-paced and informative program will include short PowerPoint presentations addressing new and important language relating to approved methods for installing tile and natural stone.

Social Media by Design Speaker: Paul Anater, Kitchen and Residential Design Experience Level: Mid-Level/Leader Building an online community around your design or architecture business doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive; it just takes a bit of know-how. In this seminar, Paul Anater will take participants through an overview of the major social media platforms and describe a series of practical, best practices for each platform. Design professionals can use these tools and practices to engage their target audiences, increase their professional standing and, ultimately, drive sales.

2012 CONFERENCE PROGRAM 2:45 PM–3:45 PM Successfully Selling Green in a Crowded Competitive Marketplace

Thin Tiles: Getting the Most from the Latest Installation Technologies Speaker: Dr. Neil McMurdie, MAPEI Corporation

Speaker: Fred Jackson, Estudio Group LLC

Experience Level: Mid-Level

This presentation will explore the special application challenges to producing sound, durable installations with tiles of reduced thickness and lighter weight.

How can your business sell to green projects in today’s marketplace? Fred Jackson will enhance your understanding on the green movement and how to sell your products and your business to consumers who are focused on sustainability. Jackson has counseled a number of stone/tile companies and will offer you a number of practical tips to implement in your business.

Digital Integration in a Fabrication Shop — Point & Countertop Speakers: Paul Menninger, Capitol Granite, LLC; Duane Naquin, Stone Interiors Experience Level: Leader Listen to two fabricators engage in a healthy discussion about digital integration. Two opposite views will be debated by these successful fabricators. One will take the side of total integration and lessons learned. The other will take the opposite viewpoint and also review lessons learned. There will be no supplier bashing, and regardless of your view on the future of the digital age, you’ll walk away with some thoughtprovoking ideas about your own operation.

Delight or Decay Speaker: Chris Ramey, Affluent Insights Experience Level: Leader Great service is not an option; it is an imperative and the platform for every successful retail business. We’ll dissect the floor covering buying tree and touch points to explore opportunities for attendees to elevate themselves above the competition to delight their customers. It is no longer enough to satisfy customers. You have to delight customers to ensure your future success and to create apostles who will represent you throughout your community. Anything less is a missed opportunity and the promise of decay.

Sustainability for Dimensional Stone: Quarry Operations and Processing Speakers: Mindy Costello, National Center for Sustainability Standards; Daniel Rea, Cold Spring Granite Experience Level: Mid-Level

Natural Stone Tile Installations Speaker: Joshua Levinson, Artistic Tile Experience Level: Mid-Level/Leader One of the most important new developments in the 2011 TCNA Handbook was the inclusion of stone tile installation methods. Josh Levinson, a leading distributor of both ceramic tile and natural stone, is a strong contributor to the development of these standards. Levinson will discuss practical applications for stone tile and installation requirements necessary to achieve success.

NSF International’s National Center for Sustainable Standards began development of a dimensional stone sustainability assessment standard utilizing the input of various stakeholders, including quarry operators, processors, users, public health, academia and others. The collaboration of these stakeholders will guide this criteria development for the assessment of sustainable quarry operations and processing, including lifecycle considerations. Identification and measurement of impacts on human health, environment and the surrounding community will be key to this sustainability initiative. When completed, the standard will assist in the determination of whether a dimensional stone product has been produced and transported in an environmentally preferable manner consistent with the principles of sustainability.

Coverings 2012 Conference Program & Event Guide

What Has Changed in Ceramic Tile Distribution?

Getting Specified & How to Stop Chasing Bids

Speaker: Donato Grosser, Grosser Consulting

Speaker: Daniel Rea, Cold Spring Granite

Experience Level: Leader

Experience Level: Mid-Level/Leader

The presentation will examine the effects the U.S. recession has had on the distribution of ceramic tile. Who gained and who lost market share; how many retailers and distributors went out of business in the U.S. and in selected states; what can we expect for the next two years; which strategies can distributors and retailers choose to stay in business until the economy recovers; and when can we expect a recovery to occur?

Are you chasing bids? Wouldn’t it be easier if you could push process upstream and focus your time on getting your product and/or company specified? Daniel Rea brings a wealth of knowledge in the architectural specification arena. Learn about the importance of continuing education, relationships, ASTM and much more. Move your company from the reactive to the proactive mode of building relationships in the design community to get specified.

thursDAY, APRIL 19

Installation Over Wood Substrates

8:00 AM–9:00 AM

Speakers: David Gobis, Tile Consultant; Gerald Sloan, NTCA Experience Level: Mid-Level/Leader

Setting Proper Customer Expectations — Sales/Showroom Perspectives Speaker: Joshua Levinson, Artistic Tile Experience Level: Mid-Level You have a limited amount of time with consumers when they are in your showroom. Sometimes they’ve done their homework — sometimes they haven’t. How well do you know the demographics of who makes the majority of the retail buying decisions? Learn about consumer demographics and the impact women have on the process. Obtaining information about setting the proper expectation about the stone purchase/ install/care process is critical to the overall buying decision. Join this discussion about best practices and lessons learned.

Building practices in the U.S. continue to implement wood systems. There are many types of wood underlayments, and properly installing ceramic tile and stone tile over these systems requires knowledge and understanding as well as skill. Leading tile industry consultant and author Dave Gobis, and NTCA trainer Gerald Sloan will address these considerations and outline important steps necessary for success.

“ I’ve been going to Coverings now for the past 17 years and only once in that period of time had I missed a show and I had missed a lot. The educational seminars offered by Coverings is paramount to continuing your growth within the industry. The networking opportunities are tremendous and anybody who’s anybody in the industry is at Coverings. If you consider yourself a player in the industry you need to be there!”

~ Drew Giungo, AMG Promotions Tile & Stone LLC Independent Representative, ILVA.S.A. Sun Touch, Travertinos Laguna, Miracle Sealants, A. Bottini Tool Register online for free at www.coverings.com

2012 CONFERENCE PROGRAM

The Art of Glass Tile Pool Installation

Why Did the Waterproofing Fail?

Speaker: Greg Andrews, Greg Andrews Tile, Inc.

Speaker: Dean Moilenan, Nobel Company

Experience Level: Mid-Level

A realistic approach to glass tile installation in pools and water features. This program will offer a step-bystep approach to making an all tile pool into a work of art. Starting with proper pool coping installation, the attendee will then begin a journey through an all glass mosaic pool from start to finish.

Whether you are a tile contractor, remodeling a residential bathroom, or an architect specifying the waterproofing for a large commercial project, the failure of the waterproofing system in your project can lead to disaster. Unfortunately, in spite of everyone’s best intentions, these failures still occur. In this presentation, Dean Moilanen will explore the factors that contribute to waterproofing failures and identify the steps you can take to ensure your waterproofing installation succeeds.

Driving Profit in the New Economy Speaker: Albert Bates, Profit Planning Group Experience Level: Leader The recent recession has been the most difficult in memory. Firms have worked very hard to rethink their cost structure and build a leaner organization. However, as important as these efforts are, they haven’t been enough. Most firms are still profitable, but few are generating desired results. This session will focus on the specific actions that are necessary in a slower-growth environment. The actions revolve around two key issues: re-evaluating pricing models and changing the pay-to-performance relationship of the firm. The session will also review the problems to avoid once more rapid growth returns as the norm.

9:15 AM–10:15 AM Stone Restoration — A Growing Opportunity to Build a Business or Add to Your Existing Business Speaker: John E. Freitag, The Stone and Tile School

The ABCs of Travertine: Selection, Installation and Maintenance Speaker: Joe Salvo, Miracle Sealants Experience Level: Mid-Level/Leader Travertine has experienced exponential growth as a floor and wall covering, but do you understand the characteristics of the stone, how to properly install it and care for it? Now more than ever, it is important to know the stone to prevent unnecessary failures and ensure success and satisfied clients. This session will address the geology and characteristics of travertine and what you must recognize before installing the stone in specific applications including floors and walls. Large format tiles will be emphasized.

Reinventing Your Organization…Tools for Leaders/Managers to Develop and Retain Talent in Uncertain Times Speaker: Sandy Smith, Sandy Smith Seminars

Experience Level: New to Profession/Mid-Level

Experience Level: All

This session is designed to answer the questions you may have prior to opening a stone restoration business or expanding your current business to include stone restoration. This session will address the equipment needed, the training required and the estimated costs to get into the restoration business. Attendees will be given suggestions on what price and profit margins to expect from this business. This session will also answer any questions that you may have about the restoration business.

See page 8 for description.

Coverings 2012 Conference Program & Event Guide

Therapy 101: Using the Internet to Find Work

From “Super-Size” to “Right Size” — The Road to a “Smart-Sized” Home

Speaker: Marc Kushner, Architizer.com

Speakers: Patricia Gaylor, Eco Interiors by Patricia Gaylor; Gale Steves, West End Productions

Experience Level: All In a world where print design publications are closing and the opportunities to have one’s work be seen by a larger public is shrinking, architects need to re-examine how they portray themselves online. The Internet allows architecture firms to bring the consumer and client into the architect’s world in ways that were never before possible. Attendees will learn how the web has changed the game — and how best to use it to their advantage. Inclusive in this will be an overview of how social media can be utilized. Case studies will also be presented.

Experience Level: Mid-Level It’s not news to anyone that the home building market has severely declined in the last five or more years. Homeowners have realized they simply cannot afford to build oversized houses that require large amounts of costly building materials. The reality of skyrocketing energy bills has put the brakes on homes with large square footage, and builders are scrambling to find ways to build or renovate homes that are energy efficient and meet the needs of today’s families without compromising on design. Gale Steves, author of Right-Sizing Your Home, and green interior designer Patricia Gaylor will discuss ways to build or renovate a home that suits your needs without breaking the budget, offering real solutions that are smart and sustainable.

COVERINGS GREEN CERTIFICATE PROGRAM

be green.

be informed. Introduced at Coverings 2011, learn the latest in sustainable design as it pertains to tile and stone at Coverings 2012 and earn the Coverings Green Certificate of Completion. Complete at least four of the seven core sessions listed below and you will be eligible to receive a Certificate of Completion in the Coverings Green Certificate Program. Core sessions include: • Ceramic Tile in Sustainable Design Today • Green Squared — The New Definition of “Green Tile” • Successfully Selling Green in a Crowded Competitive Marketplace • Sustainability for Dimensional Stone: Quarry Operations and Processing • From “Super-Size” to “Right Size” — The Road to a “Smart-Sized” Home • Ventilated Wall Systems: The Ultimate Green Surface Application • PROJECT: Green — Sustainable Tile and Stone Register online for free at www.coverings.com

2012 CONFERENCE PROGRAM 9:15 AM–10:45 AM Open for Business: Why Transparency is Mandatory in the Online Marketing Age Speaker: Marty Gould, Focalize Now

will then address the technical information attendees need to engage in articulate discussions as to why the use of this method of building surfaces is the most sustainable option available today.

1:30 PM–2:30 PM

Experience Level: Leader See page 8 for description.

10:30 AM–11:30 AM Specification 2.0: Performance-Based Modern Specification with Ceramic Tile Speaker: Ryan Fasan, Professional Attention to Tile Installation Experience Level: Mid-Level The modern age of ceramic tile began around 1970. Since then, the innovations in aesthetics and quality have jumped by leaps and bounds. This session will explore the four types of tile. Production techniques and an easy rule of thumb will be applied to provide simple language to explain choices to clients easily and select the optimal tile for every job. Once a solid foundation of knowledge is built, we can get creative utilizing all the new products available to their maximum potential. As the industry changes, new production and glazing techniques give rise to new materials — it’s up to us salespeople and specifiers to take full advantage of this highly innovative industry. Modern technology such as large formats, slim porcelains, ventilated façades and ceramic screens provide nearly limitless potential to grow our specifications outside kitchens and baths or even floors and walls.

Speakers: Ward Balisch, American Society of Concrete Contractors; Dan Welch, NTCA; James Woelfel, NTCA Experience Level: Mid-Level This session will provide a fresh perspective from experts in the concrete industry. Join us as our speakers provide realistic expectations for the tile industry related to concrete suitability for large format tile, natural stone tile and tile installations.

The State of the Union: Architectural Trends & Influences Facilitator: Marc Kushner, Architizer.com Experience Level: All See page 8 for description.

2:45 PM–3:45 PM Triple Your Profit: Stop Being a Profit Soldier and Start Being a Profit Winner Speaker: Albert Bates, Profit Planning Group Experience Level: Leader See page 8 for description.

Ventilated Wall Systems: The Ultimate Green Surface Application

Stone Care & Maintenance

Speakers: Michael P. Johnson, Michael P. Johnson Design Studio Ltd.; Jurij Podolak, VF Engineering LLC

Experience Level: New to Profession/Mid-Level

Experience Level: Mid-Level The session will open with a worldwide tour of contemporary installations showing the unlimited potential of the ventilated cladding system. Several projects will be presented to explain the ease of working with various cladding systems. The session

Concrete Substrates

Speaker: Joe Salvo, Miracle Sealants Attend this session and discover the difference between alkalines, acids and solvents and where each should be used. Learn why common grocery store and many janitorial cleaners are not good for maintaining tile and stone installations. Lastly, learn how to prolong the life of sealers, remove stains, and prevent damage to grout, tile and stone by understanding the role of proper maintenance.

Coverings 2012 Conference Program & Event Guide

Know Before You Import: U.S. Customs’ Classification of Building Stone

The Future of the Brick and Mortar Store vs. the Internet: Can We Survive?

Speaker: Jacob Bunin, U.S. Customs and Border Protection

Speaker: Steve Slutzah, Westside Tile and Stone, Inc.

Experience Level: Mid-Level

Experience Level: Leader

Prior to the importation of building stone, an importer should know the tariff provisions and rates of duty for these products. Importers often assume certain incorrect provisions apply and consequently plan their pricing incorrectly. Knowledge of the principles of tariff classification is crucial to American importers and foreign shippers of stone. Jacob Bunin of U.S. Customs will explain distinctions in the classification of building stones under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule based on the identity of the stone (marble, granite, etc.), and distinctions based on the degree to which the stone is worked. He will also discuss the applicability of NAFTA to stone produced in Canada, Mexico and the U.S. In addition, he will explain the procedures that one should follow when requesting a ruling on tariff classification. The rulings program allows an importer or foreign shipper to determine the proper classification of a product prior to importation.

In today’s uncertain market, flooring stores are facing the uncertainties of world economics, customer’s price shopping from store to store, lack of solid inventory levels and sales on the Internet. We can’t fight global economics, or keep a customer from driving all over town to save 10 cents. However, if we don’t deal with the Internet today, where will brick and mortar stores be tomorrow? The list of brick and mortar store closures is growing every day. How can we let that happen to us without a fight?

Social Media — How Are Successful Stone/ Tile Businesses Using it? Speaker: Sarah Johnson, Mktng Dept Experience Level: All Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and other social media tools are engulfing the world of communication today. User demographics show that it’s not just the 20-something age group using these communication tools. This session will cover how companies in the stone business are using it to their advantage. Several case studies will be presented to showcase best practices that will demonstrate how to get started and how to manage existing and new relationships through social media.

Installing Tile or Stone with Membranes Speaker: Art Mintie, Laticrete International Experience Level: New to Profession/Mid-Level The use of membranes for both waterproofing and crack isolation has exploded in popularity in the past several years. There are many reasons for this trend. Large format tile and stone, fast-track building practices, different substrates, and more all play a role in determining when and if a membrane should be specified and installed. The different types of membranes will be highlighted as well.

Selling to the Senses: Insight into Designing a Sensory Retail Environment for Your Clients Speaker: Kim Bernard, Walker Zanger Experience Level: Mid-Level/Leader Nearly all purchases are driven by emotion on one level or another. One of the most significant emotional purchases is one that is made for the home. Deepen the commitment with the permanence of tile and stone and the emotional connection is of heightened importance. Discover ways that you can connect with your clients on a deeper level within the physical showroom environment to set you apart from your competition.

2012 CONFERENCE PROGRAM

Installation Design Showcase Roundtable Experience Level: All Meet our designers and installers from the Installation Design Showcase and learn what it takes to pull together these annual vignettes in five days! Sit down with the designers and installers and learn about the pre-show preparation, onsite experiences and post-show lessons learned. Attendees will meet the designers and installers in small roundtables to discuss everything from their designs and materials to the working relationship. Don’t forget to visit the Showcase beforehand and bring your questions!

Stone Floor Maintenance — Establishing a Schedule & Setting Customer Expectations Speaker: John E. Freitag, The Stone and Tile School Experience Level: Mid-Level The stone floor installation is beautiful — what’s next? Attend this session to learn how to set up maintenance schedules and to learn about establishing a solid floor maintenance program. Mr. Freitag will also highlight tips for setting customer expectations for routine maintenance and much more.

8:30 AM–10:30 AM What “Points” Really Make a Difference?: Perspectives from a Green Builder/ Remodeler

What Keeps a Tile Contractor Up at Night?

Speaker: Michael Strong, Green Builder Media

Speakers: Gerald Sloan, NTCA; Michael Whistler, NTCA

Experience Level: Mid-Level/Leader

Experience Level: All

In this session, Michael Strong will surprise you with the points he went after when certifying his homes under both the NAHB and USGBC green building programs. Learn from an insider just what builders really consider when buying their products and materials. 500-mile radius? Recycled content? Nope! Building and remodeling green homes requires more than a limited focus on a half-point here or there. At the end of the day, good old-fashioned service, quality and competitive pricing will trump just about any point out there.

What are the burning issues that keep tile contractors up at night? From running our businesses to proper installation techniques, we have all had sleepless nights over one job in our career. Gerald Sloan and Michael Whistler travel the U.S. annually presenting for the NTCA and have amassed the top questions from contractors just like you. They will act as facilitators, fielding questions from the audience, sharing questions they have received in their travels and facilitating a lively discussion among attendees. Audience participation and involvement will be encouraged!

friDAY, APRIL 20 8:30 AM–9:30 AM

Practical Marketing for Small Businesses: Strengthen Your Website, Get Found & Connect with Customers

Fabrication Efficiencies — Is Your Business a Rollercoaster?

Speaker: Christine Whittemore, Simple Marketing Now, LLC

Speaker: Chip Gleine, Ask Granite Guru

Experience Level: Mid-Level

Experience Level: Leader

How hard does your website work on behalf of your business? Does it accurately represent what your business does in your marketplace? Does it attract online traffic? Does it generate qualified leads who become customers? In a world where most customers educate themselves online first, you need to have a website that helps you get found online when

Is your business a rollercoaster? In today’s environment, it is important to: identify your capacity; sell to your capacity; schedule to your capacity; work to your capacity; and invoice to your capacity. Learn best practices from Chip Gleine who has helped a number of fabricators focus on their operational efficiencies.

Coverings 2012 Conference Program & Event Guide

potential customers start a search for your product category. It needs to generate leads and immediately communicate to site visitors what you are about, how you can help them and what actions they should take next. Using specific examples, this session will demonstrate how to assess your website so you can prioritize what to improve (including how and whether to incorporate social media) to get found and increase traffic, generate leads and connect with customers.

Universal Design Speaker: Glenda Gilmore Andes, Ph.D., Designing for Independence, Inc. Experience Level: New to Profession/Mid-Level Join us for a lively discussion of the question “For whom do we design?” While addressing the question, this course provides a history of Universal Design, a newer and more comprehensive description of Universal Design principles and a discussion of what Universal Design is and what it is not. We will discuss the differences between Universal Design, accessible design, designing for disabilities, aging-in-place and the ADA.

BE CONNECTED. BE ENGAGED. Coverings is no longer just a four-day event, it’s a year-round experience. Connect with the best and brightest minds in the tile and stone industry on Coverings’ social media sites and be the first to hear about and participate in contests and giveaways. From YouTube and Facebook to LinkedIn and Twitter and even a blog, Coverings covers it all! Like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CoveringsShow and interact with our thousands of fans. Follow us on Twitter, @Coverings and #Coverings2012, to receive up-to-theminute information and updates on the show and the industry.

9:45 AM–10:45 AM Financial Benchmarking in the Granite and Tile industry

Watch us on YouTube at www.YouTube.com/ user/TheCoveringsShow and share and discuss.

Speaker: Curt Richter, United Stoneworks, Inc. Experience Level: Leader Have you ever heard the statement, “If they really understood the cost of doing business, they wouldn’t price their products they way they do?” This session sets the stage to help the stone/tile industry look at a financial benchmark model which shows realistic targets in such areas as labor costs, G&A costs, cost of goods, shop costs and sales expenses. Curt Richter will help you create a financial “score card;” showcase how to become more profitable through financial targeting; share proven growth strategies and successes; and discuss value-added sales for higher gross margins.

Network with hundreds of industry professionals in our LinkedIn group and join the active conversations. Visit our new blog on www.coverings.com/ blog and read about a variety of topics written by industry influencers.

Scan this QR code with your mobile device to register now for FREE!

UNLIMITED POTENTIal FOR YOUR BUSINESS. COVERINGS 2012 IN ORLANDO, FLORIDA. With the bold conference program, brilliant exhibit hall and bright new programming, you can’t miss Coverings 2012. Register today for FREE at www.coverings.com and check the box to receive email updates on the can’t-miss educational and networking events taking place at Coverings 2012.

EXHIBIT HALL HOURS Tuesday, April 17 . . . . . . . . 10:00 AM–5:30 PM (1000–1730) Wednesday, April 18. . . . . . 10:00 AM–5:30 PM (1000–1730) Thursday, April 19. . . . . . . 10:00 AM–5:30 PM (1000–1730) Friday, April 20. . . . . . . . . . 10:00 AM–3:00 PM (1000–1530)

GENERAL INFORMATION International Visitors If you are from a country requiring a visa to visit the United States, you are advised to apply for your visa a minimum of 120 days before your visit. For more information on visa requirements, visit www.coverings.com.

Age Policy

Questions?

No one under the age of 16 will be allowed into the Coverings 2012 exhibit hall unless accompanied by an adult. The accompanying adult assumes full responsibility for the person under 16 and must sign a waiver at registration.

For registration assistance, please contact us at 877-303-0712 or coverings@ compusystems.com. For general show information, please contact us at 800-687-7469 or info@coverings.com.

Coverings 2012 Conference Program & Event Guide

nter

Hotel and Travel Book your Orlando hotel rooms with Coverings’ official housing vendor, Travel Planners, to receive these exclusive benefits:

ry food at

• Rates lower than you’ll find on the Internet or by calling the hotel directly.

2 3

ry n food at

COVERINGS 2012

• No pre-payment! Book today and pay the hotel directly upon your departure.

North/South Building

7 4 West Building

• Update or even cancel your reservations with no fees or penalties.

Fly over

• Immediate confirmations and no service fees.

Reserve your Coverings 2012 hotel rooms by March 23 to lock in the special rates!

Visit www.coverings.com/hotel-travel1 or call Travel Planners directly at 800-221-3531 or 212-532-1660 to book now.

Coverings 2012 Hotels 1 Courtyard by Marriott

Single/Double: $133

8600 Austrian Ct. 2 Embassy Suites International Dr./Conv Center

King Suite: $169/Double-Bedded Suite: $179

8978 International Dr. 3 Hampton Inn

Single/Double: $119

8900 Universal Blvd.

4 Hilton Orlando

Single/Double: $219

6001 Destination Pkwy. 5 Rosen Centre Hotel

Single/Double: $182 • Complimentary in-room Internet • 10% discount on food at restaurants and outlets

(headquarters hotel of NTCA and CTDA) 9840 International Dr.

6 Rosen Plaza Hotel 9700 International Dr.

Single/Double: $172 • Complimentary in-room Internet • 10% discount on food at Café Matisse and Jack’s

7 The Peabody Orlando

Single/Double: $239 • $9/HSC fee optional

9801 International Dr.

Complimentary Shuttle Bus Service

Unauthorized Housing

Complimentary shuttle bus service will be provided between official hotels and the Orange County Convention Center except for the Peabody Orlando, Rosen Centre and Hilton Orlando, which are within walking distance of the convention center.

All lodging reservations should be made directly with the official Coverings 2012 housing vendor, Travel Planners. Other room “pirates” may contact you using the Coverings name and attempt to book rooms for the show, however they are unauthorized housing providers and are often unable to provide our attendees and exhibitors with complete service. If you are contacted by a housing pirate, please notify Coverings immediately at mnpeake@ntpshow.com.

COVERINGS 2012 EXHIBITOR *Exhibitor list as of December 15, 2011. Visit www.coverings.com/exhibitor-list for the most up-to-date list. 3S International Corp., Ltd. Abirochas Brazilian Assoc. of Orn. Stone ABK Group Industrie Ceramiche SpA. Activant Solutions Inc. AD Tiles Adex, S.L. Africa Range Agarwal Marble & Art Stone/ CTM Akgun Seramik/Dura-tiles Alabama Marble/CTM Aleno Tile Limited Alfagres S.A. Alimoglu Mermer Granit A.S. Alpha Professional Tools Alphacam AlysEdwards Tile & Stone American Bullnose Company American Express Open American Marazzi Tile American Restoration Tile Inc. American Tile Source Americana Granitos do Brasil Ltda Amerisink Anatolia Tile and Stone, Inc. Andean Stone Company Andrade S/A Marmores E Granitos Anfacer-Brasil Ceramic Tiles Antiquity Tile (Wiseman Spaulding Design) Antolini Luigi & C. SpA APC Cork, Inc. Apollo Stone Imports Inc. Aprile USA Inc. Architectural Superstore, Inc. ARO Granite Industries Ltd. Artistic Tile Artstone Arvex Italstyle S.R.L. Arvicon International Atlas Concorde Aymar Dogaltas Madencilik Dis Ticaret Ltd. STL. B.A. Schmidt Arts & Enterprises BAB Tile (Beyza Ahmet Dis Ticaret Ltd.) Bacci Marmi/CTM Barktas Maden Insaat Tus. San. Ve Dis Tic STI Basaltina S.R.L. Bati-Orient Beckart Environmental, Inc. Bedrosians Beijing Lan’s Ceramic Products Co., Ltd. Belenco Bella Vista Tile Bellavita Tile, Inc. Bellcomb Benissimo Systems/Surface Art Inc. Beno J. Gundlach Company Bestview International Company Bien Seramik Blanke Corporation Blick Industries Blue Cross Investment Group Bode USA Inc. Bonotti Stone Trading Intl. BonTon Designs LLC Braxton Bragg Breton SpA

British Ceramic Tile Bruno Lucchetti Marmi e Graniti Srl Bundi Silica Exports Bundles SRL Campolonghi Italia CAPMG Caribbean Coral & Marble Caribe International Carmel Stone Imports Casa Italia — Vitrex Casalgrande Padana SpA Castel CCI (Yixing) Stone Co., Ltd. CCPIT Building Materials Sub-Council CEGI Technology Inc. Cemar Electro CEMIX Ceramic Tile Distributors Association (CTDA) Ceramica Del Conca SpA Ceramica San Lorenzo, USA Ceramica Sant’ Agostino SpA Ceramica Vallelunga, Srl Ceramiche Ascot SpA Ceramiche Caesar SPA Ceramiche Refin Spa Ceramics of Italy Cercan Mosaic Cerdisa Cerindustries Spa Chemcore Industries, Inc. Chengdu Xionggang Dantao Art Glass Co., Ltd. Chengdu Zaijian Decorating Materials Co. China Arts & Crafts Nanjing Imp & Exp Corp. China Boyan Stone China Stone Ltd. Cibola Glass Works Cisa — Gruppo Ceramiche Ricchetti SpA Clay Decor, LLC Cleopatra Stones Group (MK) CMS/Brembana Cobb Home Innovations Coco Mosaic USA COEM — Fioranese Cogemar Srl Color Rite, Inc. Conic Collections Ltd. Consorcio de Canteras Andinas SAC CONSORZIO PIMAR Cooperativa Ceramica D’Imola Coraldom, C POR A Cosa Marble Co. CoverQUIK Tile Co. CR Studio 4 Creaciones Practicas Crossville Inc. Dancik International, Ltd. Danesi Cargo Srl Davemax Asia Pacific Limited Del Corona & Scardigli Diamant Venturi Diamond Tech Dimpomar — Rochas Portuguesas, Lda. Diqing Development and Investment Group Dom Ceramiche Domos Srl Dongguan City Wonderful Ceramics Industrial Park Co., Ltd.

Dry-Treat, Inc. DSA-Deutsche Steinzeug America, Inc. Dunis Studios DuPont StoneTech™ Professional® Duradek Dural USA, LLC Duratile Corp./Puccini Natural Stone Eckostone Eclipse Stainless Edilgraniti Srl Edimax Astor Gruppo Beta SpA EGE SERAMIK Sanayi ve Ticaret A.S. Egypt Expo & Convention Authority (EECA) Eleganza Tile, Inc. Elemental Stone Elon Tile & Stone Emenee Emilceramica SpA Eurograniti Srl European Onyx EuroStone Machine Everstone International Pty. Ltd. Faber Travertine Marble & Tile Fabrimar Ind Rochas E Equipamentos, S.A. FILA Chemicals USA Fin Pan, Inc. Fincibec Spa Flooring Empire Group Florida Tile, Inc. FLORIM CERAMICHE SpA Flow International Corporation FMS — Factory Marble & Stone Foshan Bright Decoration Material Co., Ltd. Foshan Epoch Glasstech Co., Ltd. Foshan Global Bridge Building Material Co., Ltd. Foshan Griffiths Building Material Ltd. Foshan H&P Enterprise Co., Ltd. Foshan HanSu Stone Co., Ltd. Foshan Heda Commerce Co., Ltd. Foshan Jiasheng Economic & Trade Co., Ltd. Foshan Lanto Building Material Co., Ltd. Foshan LONGART Building Decoration Materials Co., Ltd. Foshan Nanhai Lingyun Building Material Ltd. Foshan Sijiatu Building Material Co., Ltd. Foshan Victory Tile Co., Ltd. Foshan Zijinyu Ceramic Co., Ltd. Franken-Schotter GmbH & Co. KG Friul Mosaic Fujian Huacheng Imp & Exp Co., Ltd. Fujian Quanzhou New Wanlong Stone Co., Ltd. Fujiwa Group USA, Inc. Fushan International Marketing Consultant Co., Ltd.

Coverings 2012 Conference Program & Event Guide

Fuzhou Hengyu Import & Export Co., Ltd. Fuzhou Skystone Diamond Tool Co., Ltd. Gabriella Revestimento Ceramico LTDA/CTM Gallos Marmoleria S.A. Gama Traverten Gaoyao Yushan Ceramics Industrial Co., Ltd. GDA Marmi E Graniti Srl Gem Granites Gemcraft Tiles & Surfaces, LLC Jewel Craftz Gemini Saw Company, Inc. Genesis APS America Inc. Global Marble & Granite Offshore Sal GMM SPA Gong Loon Industries Ltd. Grace Construction Products Graiman CIA LTDA Granada Tile Graniser Granit Seramik A.S. Granitex SpA GranitiFiandre GranQuartz L.P. Great Lakes Tile Products Inc. Green Mountain Soapstone Gres de Aragon, Canada, S.A. Group Ceramica Cleopatra Groves, Inc. Gruppo Ceramiche Gambarelli SPA Gruppo Ceramiche Ricchetti SpA Guan Yun Enterprise Co., Ltd. Guangdong Dongpeng Ceramic Co., Ltd. Guangdong Kito Ceramics Co., Ltd. Guangdong Sihui Aidi Crystal Stone Co., Ltd. Guangzhou Tulip Mosaic Company GV Service, Inc. H and A Natural Stone H.B. Fuller Construction Products Haiyang Baofeng Stone Products Co., Ltd. Hangzhou Kasaro Decorative Material Co., Ltd. Hangzhou Nabel Group Co., Ltd. Happy Feet by RVJ Intl. LLC. Happy House s.r.s. Heka Product Hilltop Stones Pvt. Ltd. Hirsch Glass Corp Hispania Ceramica, S.A. HK Tianli International Trade Co., Ltd. Holy Land Natural Stone Quarries Homee Industries Co., Ltd. Homeowners Marketing Services Honglei (Xiamen) Stone Co., Ltd. Houstone Enterprises Ltd. Huabao Stone Co., Ltd. Huada Superabrasive Tool Technology Co., Ltd. Hui’an Huangchang Diamond Tools Co., Ltd. Husqvarna Construction Products Icon Stone, Inc.

Ilksernit Antik Mermer Ic ve Dis Tic A.S. Ilva S.A. Ceramica Images In Tile, LLC IMEX International Co., Ltd. IMS USA LLC Industrie Ceramiche Piemme Spa Inland Diamond Products Co. Intec Stone (Xiamen) Ltd. Interceramic Intermac Internaational Stones India Pvt. Ltd. International Jewelry Creations International Product Supply International Wholesale Tile, LLC Interstyle Ceramic & Glass Ltd. InvisaBLOCK InvisaTread Iris US Island Stone Italdiamant USA Inc. Italgraniti Group Spa Italian Trade Commission Japan Ceramic Tile Manufacturers Assoc. Jas Forwarding Inc. JDD Industry Co. Ltd. Jeffrey Court Jerusalem Heights Jerusalem Marble A. Grebelsky Jiangsu Beier Decoration Material Co., Ltd. Jiangxi Golden Maple Jade Co., Ltd. Jiangxi Jinwei Stone Company, Ltd. Jiujiang Golden Phoenix Decoration Material Co., Ltd. JMS/Jurassic Stone John H. Best & Sons Inc. Johnson Tiles Kale Italia SRL socio unico Kangli Stone Co., Ltd. Shuitou Nanan Karamehmet Mermer San. Tic. Ltd. Sti Keen Decorative Production Co., Ltd. Ken Mason Tile Keramikos King-Strong Co., Ltd. Kraft Stone Direct, Inc. Kraft Tool Company Inc. Kur Marble Kutuk Madencilik Paz. San. ve Dis Tic. Ltd. Sti La Fabbrica SpA La Ponte Marmi Srl Lackmond Lander Distributors Inc. Landi Group SRL Landmark Metalcoat Inc. Landmark Stone International, LLC Lanka Walltile PLC Lapitec Laser Products Industries LATICRETE International, Inc. LEA North America, LLC Legend Pacific International Limited Leonardi Group

LIST Leya Decoration Material Co., Ltd. Lilywork Ceramic Ornament, LLC Litokol Liviel Kereskedelmi es Szolgaltato Kft. Lixin Marble and Granite Co., Ltd. Long Victory Intl. Convention & Exhibition Lourdes Industrias Ceramicas Lowitz & Company Loxcreen Flooring Group LTS Ceramics, Inc. M & G Impex (India) PVT Ltd. M.S. International Madeka Stone Development Corporation Madhucon Granites Limited MagBacker Magma Diamond Tools Magratex Ltda. Mahi Granites PVT Ltd. Majestic Gemstone Malbros Marbles & Granites Industries Manifattura Emiliana Maniscalco Manroyce Global Ltd. Manzi Marmi Srl MAPEI Corporation Marble Arch Ltd. Marble Systems Marca Corona 1741 Marcolini Marmi Spa Margraf SpA Mark E. Industries, Inc. Marme Canada Inc Marmi Graniti Favorita SpA Marmi Orobici Graniti SpA Marmol Del Tempisque Marmoles de Honduras, S.A. Marmoles Tarragona S.A. Marmonil Marmores e Granitos Royal Ltda. Marmores Galrao Marmotech, S.A. Marvit Masters Building Products McIntyre Tile Company Inc. Medicine Bluff Studio Mediterranea L.L.C. Medstones Ltd. Mega Tiles Limited MegaCera USA Meh India Overseas Pvt. Ltd. Menga’s Marmi S.r.l. Metaphor Bronze Tileworks Metropolitan Ceramics Micbolo Mosaic Miles Supply Milstone Marble Works Minera Deisi Minmetals Int’l Advertising & Exhibition Miracle Sealant & Abrasives Mirage Granito Ceramico SPA Mixed Up Mosaics Mocapo — Comercio E Industria De Marmores LDA Moraware Mosaicfilm.com a div. of Victrix Mosaico+ Mosaicos Terra Mosaique Surface Inc.

MR Direct International MVC — Mármores de Alcobaça, Lda. MYGSA/CTM National Applied Construction Products, Inc. National Gypsum Company National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA) Natural Stone and Tile Design Natural Stone Resources Natural Stone Solutions NCC Tiles Inc. Neelnox Metal Mosaics New T & J Tiles & Cabinets, Inc. Newexaktsaw Inc. Nile International Stone Noble Company Northstar Ceramic Trading, LLC Novabell S.p.A. Ceramiche Italiane Nuheat Oceanside Glasstile OMG National Onyx Tile & Bath Distributors Origin Tile Original Mission Tile Original Style Limited Oscar Design Studio, LLC Panaria Ceramica Park Industries Inc. Pavigres Ceramicas, SA Pearl Abrasive Perfect Stone Limited Petra Antiqua s.r.l. Phoenician Arts Pokarna Limited Powerline Imports Primestone Inc. Prodim USA Proflex Products, Inc. Progress Profiles S.P.A. Promomarbre/CTM Protecto Wrap Company Qixing Stone Co., Ltd. Quanzhou Zhijie Stone Products Industrial & Commercial Co., Ltd. Quanzhou Zhongzhi Diamond Tool Co., Ltd. Quarry Collection Quarry Tile Questech Corporation QuickShelf (Wheeler Tile & Company) Red River Valley Slate LLC Red Rock Tileworks Regent Stone Products, Inc. Revestimientos Lamosa/ Servicios Comerciales Lamose, SA de CV RFMS, Inc. Rocky Tile Ltd. Romax Tiles Austrialia Pty Ltd. Rondine SpA Rookwood Pottery Co. Royal Mosa B.V. Royal Sealers RPS Distributors RSG Stones Rubi Tools USA Inc. Ruipedra LDA. S.I.L. MAR. SRL SA. GE. VAN. Marmi SRL Sabine Hill

Safeharbor Software, Inc. Saint Bana Stone — China Saint-Gaudens Salem Stone Samich USA Sandebo Ceramic Santucci Graniti Srl Saudi Marble and Granite Factory Co. Saudi Marmo Company Savema SpA Savino del Bene USA Inc. Savoia Italia SpA Schluter Systems Seed Decorative Material Co., Ltd. SELF s.p.a. Semco Stone Seneca Tiles, Inc./Epro Tile Serenissima Cir Industrie Ceramiche SpA Settecento — Mosaici e Ceramiche d’Arte SGM, Inc. Sha Fei Bo Jing Shi Co., Ltd. Shandong Sanlei Trading Co., Ltd. Shanghai Best-Look Int’l Co., Ltd. Shanghai Toe Ceramics Develop Co., Ltd. Shenzhen Excellent Stone Material Trade Co., Ltd. Sheqi Kangyuan Stone Factory Shine Import Export Inc. ShinHeung Stone Co., Ltd. Shreeram Granimarmo Pvt. Ltd. Sichuan Yingjing Kaiquan Industrial Co., Ltd. Sicis SRL Slabsmith SM DIA Stone, LLC Smart Spacer, LLC Solancis-Sociedade Exploradora Pedreiras, SA Solistone, Inc. SONITE Innovative Surfaces Southern Cross Building Products Spain Pavilion Splendor India Pvt. Ltd. Stanza International, LLC. Status Ceramics STN Ceramica Stone & Pewter Accents/ Lunada Bay Glass Stone Design Stone Fabricators Alliance Stone Group International Stone Industry Investment and Development LLC Stone Mosaics Stone Profit Systems Stone Shippers Limited Stone Technology Center, LLC Stone Terroir STONEBRIDGE@59 Stoneline Group, LLC Stone-Mart Marble StonePeak Ceramics, Inc. Stonexchange Stota Ceramics Co., Ltd. Strong Ace Ltd. (A Ceramica) SunTouch Floor Heating & Snow Melting Surfaces Ta Hsiang Containers Ind. Co., Ltd.

Tabarka Studio Taiwan Ceramic Industries Association TarMak USA Inc. Taulell S.A. Tecno Art Marmi TENAX USA Tendenzza Teresa Marble Corporation Terra Bella Marble Terra Marmol, LLC Terra Verre Terraferma USA Corporation Terramar Inc. Thai Ceramic Co., Ltd. — Cotto Tiles Studios Thassos.com Thor Granitos E Marmores Tile Council of North America (TCNA) Tile EZE Tile of Spain (ASCER) Tile Optima Tile Redi Tiles Best Source, LLC Tiles Couture Todagres Todanto Traverten Mermer Harmony Stone Travertine Bros. Travertini Paradiso Travertinos Laguna S.A. de C.V. Tureks Turkish Ceramic Promotion Group Tuscan Leveling System Un Rayito de Sol Unicom-Starker SRL Unicorn Tile Corp. Unique Building Concepts VanHearron Inc. VaporLux Inc. Veegoo Machinery Co., Ltd. Venus Marble/Medimer Marble & Granite Verde 1999 SRL Vereinigte Marmorwerke Kaldorf GmbH Vermont Quarries Corp. Vetriceramici De Mexico S De RL DE CV VIA DELL’ARTE, Inc. Vickers Industrial Co., Ltd. Villeroy & Boch VitrA Karo Sanayi ve Ticaret A.S Vitromex Vlanco VMC Technical Assistance Corp. Voguebay Vytek WAKEI — Japan Ceramic Tile Manufacturers Association Walkon Tile Wan Feng Compound Stone Technology Co., Ltd. Wedi Corporation Wenzhou Yongjian Industry Co., Ltd. Wholesale Tile by Aguayo Win-Win Stone Co., Ltd. Wizard Enterprise Woods Powr-Grip Co., Inc. World Rocks India WSL International Business Co. Ltd.

Xiamen Ally Stone Industrial Co., Ltd. Xiamen Andresen Import & Export Co., Ltd. Xiamen BST Trading Co., Ltd. Xiamen Chine Trade Co., Ltd. Xiamen Chitrust Import & Export Co., Ltd. Xiamen Chonglian Imp. & Exp. Co., Ltd. Xiamen Dongfangrong Import & Export Co., Ltd. Xiamen Forsen Construction Materials Co., Ltd. Xiamen Fulei Imp. & Exp. Co., Ltd. Xiamen Green Trading Co., Ltd. Xiamen H & L International Tranicing Co., Ltd. Xiamen HWM Stone Products Co., Ltd. Xiamen JNK Imp. & Exp. Co., Ltd. Xiamen Lowang Imp. & Exp. Trading Corp Xiamen M&R Diamond Tools Co., Ltd. Xiamen Nangang Stone Imp. & Exp. Ltd. Xiamen Nangang Stone Import & Export Co. Xiamen Nova Imp. & Exp. Co., Ltd. Xiamen Refu Stone Co., Ltd. Xiamen Risheng Stones Co., Ltd. Xiamen Roc Stone Co., Ltd. Xiamen Shenji Stone Co., Ltd. Xiamen Sinocau Import and Export Co., Ltd. Xiamen Stone Enterprise Group Co., Ltd. Xiamen SUV Stone Co., Ltd. Xiamen Taiying Diamond Products Co., Ltd. Xiamen Walgar Industry & Trades Xiamen WanFu Trade Co., Ltd. Xiamen Wanli Stone Decoration & Design Co., Ltd. Xiamen Wingate Import & Export Co., Ltd. Xiamen Xinglei Stone Co., Ltd. Xiamen Xinhenglong Stone Industrial Co., Ltd. Xiamen Xinyan Trade Co., Ltd. Xiamen Yeyang Imp. & Exp. Co., Ltd. Xiamen Yinlian Stone Co., Ltd. Xi’an XinKe Diamond Products Co., Ltd. XYZ Limited Yantai Ming Stone Trading Corp., Ltd. YDL Stone Yekalon Industry, Inc. Yip Wah Marble Group Ltd. Yixing Xingyun Stone Materials Co., Ltd. Yurtbay Seramik Zhe Jiang Zhongcha Int’l Trade Co., Ltd. Zhengzhou Sanxiang Technology Co., Ltd.

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