Ceramics of Italy is currently accepting applications for this year’s Young Distributor Program, an initiative sponsored by Confindustria Ceramica (the Italian Association of Ceramics) and EdiCer SpA (the organizer of Cersaie), in collaboration with CTDA (Ceramic Tile Distributors Association).

First created in 2019, the program was developed by the Italian ceramics industry to strengthen its relationship with North American distributors and bring a new generation of importers and distributors to CERSAIE, the world’s premier exhibition of ceramic tile and bathroom furnishings, where they will see firsthand the latest tile products and exciting developments from Italian manufacturers.

Young professionals working as tile distributors and importers throughout North America are encouraged to apply. A handful of selected applicants will be treated to a 5-day trip to Bologna, Italy during CERSAIE, taking place from September 27 - October 1, 2021 at the Bologna Exhibition Centre. They will accompany a large delegation of North American journalists, architects, and designers, who will be led on a guided tour of the show to discover the newest products, trends and applications in tile as well as grow connections with manufacturer representatives.

Delegates from the program will also be free to explore the show on their own, enjoy local cultural experiences, and attend a special trip outside of the city to visit an Italian tile factory to see the production process in person. Ceramics of Italy will cover expenses for a four-night stay in a hotel (from September 26–September 30) and a main cabin flight for all selected participants.

Applicants must show a desire to learn about the Italian ceramic tile industry, and will be considered on the following criteria:

  • Importer/Distributor is under 40-years-old
  • Importer/Distributor is based in North America
  • Importer/Distributor has been involved with purchasing for no more than 7 years
  • Importer/Distributor works with at least one Italian ceramic tile producer
  • Importer/Distributor demonstrates passion and leadership in their company

Entries will be accepted until July 30 at https://bit.ly/CersaieYDP.