The International Surface Event (TISE) returns to Las Vegas's Mandalay Bay Convention Center from January 28-30, 2025, bringing together the most comprehensive showcase of flooring, stone, and tile innovations in North America. Spanning over 400,000 square feet and featuring more than 700 exhibiting brands, TISE continues to be the industry's cornerstone event for discovering cutting-edge products and emerging trends.

This year's event features two dynamic neighborhoods—Surfaces and Tile + Stone—where industry leaders across 25 categories will showcase their latest innovations. The exhibition floor serves as a crucial networking hub where professionals can forge new relationships and explore opportunities for business growth.

Fostering new talent, TISE 2025 introduces an exciting opportunity for industry newcomers through its "StartUp Station" pavilion. Qualifying companies—those with less than two years in the market and no previous TISE exhibition experience—applied for one of six complimentary tabletop spaces, offering a unique platform to showcase their innovations.

Flooring installation is a focus of the event. A highlight is the prestigious National Installer of the Year Competition, where regional winners compete for a $3,000 prize and championship belt. This year's competition is focused on carpet and luxury vinyl plank installation, and features sponsors Mohawk, Performance Accessories, QEP/Roberts and Schönox. 

We’ve followed the regional competitions, which took place in Seattle, Washington, in August; Chicago, Illinois, in September; Dalton, Georgia, in October; and Phoenix, Arizona, in November. This year’s competitors demonstrate some of the industry's finest installation talent and dedication to excellence—we can’t wait to see who will be victorious.  

The International Union of Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT) Apprenticeship Showcase returns to TISE for its fourth year, featuring top apprentices from regional competitions across Hawaii, California, and Nevada. From January 28-30, 2025, top apprentices from Hawaii, California, and Nevada will demonstrate their skills at Booth 3437 on the TISE show floor.

Among this year's standout competitors is Diana from the California office, representing a growing number of women entering the trade. The competitors, selected through rigorous regional competitions across District Councils including DC-36 (California), DC-50 (Hawaii), and DC-16 (Nevada), will face a challenging three-day test of their expertise.

Competitors will work with Tarkett linoleum, demonstrating their mastery of installation techniques under the watchful eyes of a distinguished panel of judges, comprising IUPAT staff and signatory contractors. The assessment criteria cover everything from precise measurements and gap control to technical proficiency and time management, with participants required to complete their installations within the three-day window.

The event, which began in 2021, has grown to become a highlight of TISE, thanks to support from industry leaders like Tarkett and Milwaukee Tools. IUPAT's commitment to nurturing talent extends beyond the competition floor, with the organization sponsoring travel and accommodation for competitors and their families.

Of course, TISE will showcase plenty of live product demonstrations, guided tours, education and networking events. The Best of TISE Awards Ceremony will take place on January 29, 1:45 p.m. at the TISE LIVE Theatre booth 3509)

Join us as we experience the future of the flooring industry, connect with global leaders, and discover the latest innovations shaping the market.