The organizers of Surfaces 2003 have proclaimed Jan. 28-31 "International Floor Covering Week." The dates coincide with the Surfaces 2003 conference in Las Vegas.

"The name recognizes all the floor covering activity that culminates during the week of Surfaces," according to Michelle Troop, Senior Show Director, Surfaces. "In addition to the activity on the show floor, more and more manufacturers and associations are linking their annual sales and member meetings to the week of the show as they embrace this time period as the industry's week."

Surfaces 2003 will feature new exhibitors, products, events and attractions, according to organizers, in over 500,000 square feet of space. A new laminate showcase will be featured alongside carpet and vinyl installers vying to win the Installation Competition, taking place Jan. 29-31 on the show floor.

The Installation Competition is produced by the WFCA and co-sponsored by National Floor Trends and Floor Covering Installer magazines.

In addition, NFT will serve among the judges of Surfaces' new Innovative Retailer 2003 contest. To participate, retailers must submit their best idea for growing profit, reducing expenses and more efficient business operations online at www.SurfacesExpo.com by Dec. 13 to qualify to be Innovative Retailer of the Year. Surfaces 2003 attendees can stop by the Armstrong, Mannington, Mohawk or Shaw booths at the show to pick up an official Access Code that will allow them to unlock the secrets of business success. Competing retailers will have a chance to win $2,500 and a trip to Surfaces 2003.

Other programs, classes and events can be found at Surfaces, including a reception party, an Innovative Retailer 2003 contest, and an NAFCD Distributor Sales Self-Study and Certification Program.

Answer to questions about Surfaces 2003 can be obtained by calling (800) 547-3477 or (972) 536-6400.