Trade show organizer ITSS EXPOS said it will launch a show in Rio de Janeiro next year that will focus on granite, other stone surfaces and the machinery used to handle them. ITSS said Brazil is a fitting location for the expo, scheduled for June 15-17, 2006 because "Brazil has grown to be the largest manufacturer and exporter of granite to the United States and the demand for Brazilian material continues to grow each year."

The show organizer noted that the event has the backing of the State Stone Association of Rio, the Brazilian National Association of Stone and the local government. Other associations are expected to sign on.

Richard Caires, president of ITSS Expos, noted that the new show is tied to his company's overall expansion plans. "ITSS Expo's stated mission is to establish a portfolio of high quality stone and machine shows in the most strategic world class venues. Rio joins our roster of U.S. based shows in Las Vegas, New York and Miami, to provide complete coverage in the best venues of the western hemisphere. As with all ITSS shows, we will focus on value and service," said Caires.