Coverings officials have reported increased attendance and exhibitor numbers for this year's show, which was held in Orlando, Fla.
According to officials, more than 25,000 industry professionals attended the week-long expo. Attendance generated a 10% increase from the 2014 show in Las Vegas and a 12% increase from 2012, the last year Coverings was held in Orlando.
Emphasizing the growing specification and installation of tile and stone products in projects across the U.S., the retailer, contractor, installer, fabricator, architect and designer segments experienced increases compared to 2012.
In addition to attendee growth, Coverings experienced a surge in the number of exhibitors showcasing innovative new products. In total, Coverings hosted 1,094 exhibitors from 41 countries, representing a 12% growth from 2014. Exhibit space spanned 440,000 net square-feet—an 18% increase in show floor space from last year.
“The strong attendance at this year’s Coverings is a valid indicator of growth in the tile and stone industry—overall, this was our largest show since 2008,” said Karin Fendrich, Coverings' show director. “With a legacy of more than a dozen successful shows in Orlando, we were thrilled to make the return to this market for the 2015 show. We’re looking forward to building on this year’s achievements when the show moves to Chicago in 2016.”
Pedro Miralles, commercial director for Apavisa, added, "This year was a great event which continued on the trends shown in previous years, as we saw more visitors and many new business opportunities for our company. Orlando was a perfect location, and we expect that our participation will bring us great results in the North American market.”
Coverings attendees found no shortage of opportunities to enhance their technical skills or network with peers, as Coverings offered a robust conference program with more than 75 sessions and CEU courses; installation techniques were demonstrated live on the show floor at the Installation Design Showcase and at the Live Demonstration Stage; and specialized roundtables and tours brought together professional segments during dedicated Appreciation Days.
“All the events that are part of the show, from the educational sessions to the awards programs, are very important to consolidate relationships and elevate the attention to the products and services shown by exhibitors,” said Roberto Putti, sales manager for Ceramica Sant’Agostino.
Coverings 2016 will be held April 18 to 21 at McCormick Place in Chicago.
For more information, visit coverings.com.
