At the recent Floor Installation Association of North America (FIANA) meeting in Nashville, President/CEO Gary Verhey announced that he and his wife, Secretary/Treasurer Barbara Verhey, were retiring from the organization.

While NeoCon 2013, held recently at the Merchandise Mart in Chicago, saw only a slight increase in attendance—41,488 people this year compared to 40,947 at last year’s event—the show was full of energy, optimism and crowded halls.

Laminate flooring is a segment growing in usage and profitability in some areas, but losing ground in others.

Aside from serving as the launching pad for some of the newest and most innovative products in the flooring industry, Surfaces and StonExpo/Marmomacc Americas 2013 will be home to more than 70 education sessions 

Grouts are becoming more advanced, with new looks, fast-setting properties and formulations designed to guard against blotchiness, efflorescence and other common problems.

Okay, now I’m convinced the industry is turning around.

There’s a saying in journalism: If it happens three times, it’s a trend.

Coverings 2013, which ran April 29-May 2, touched down for the first time in Atlanta this year.

Making good on the theme of “Think Big,” the 2013 National Wood Flooring Association Wood Flooring Expo, held last month in Dallas, boasted 20 percent growth in floor space as well as increased attendance.

Homeowners love soft surfaces like carpet, but they don’t always love maintaining them.