Floor Trends & Installation, in collaboration with its sister brand Stone World and research division My Clear Opinion Insights Hub, will unveil findings from a major new research study on tile and stone purchasing behaviors at The International Surfaces Event (TISE) in Las Vegas this January. The presentation, "Cracking the Code: What Influences Tile and Stone Purchases Today," will take place on Tuesday, January 28 at 2:45 PM PST in the tise live theater booth 3509.

Led by Mitch Henderson, co-CEO of BNP Media, the comprehensive study examines purchasing trends, decision-making processes, and evolving dynamics between contractors, designers, and homeowners in the tile and stone industry. The research provides insights into labor costs, brand preferences, workforce challenges, and factors influencing contractor selection.

"One surprising finding was the decline in social media's influence on purchasing decisions, with homeowners increasingly returning to word-of-mouth recommendations," Henderson noted. "We're seeing a shift back toward human connection, even as technology advances."

The study uniquely incorporates perspectives from across the industry— including contractors, architects, retailers, and homeowners—to identify disconnects and alignments in expectations and experiences. Key areas explored include pricing transparency, communication preferences, and project timeline management.

The research also examines sustainability trends, product preferences for various applications, and industry recruitment challenges. Henderson indicated that the full 88-page report contains detailed data breakdowns valuable for industry professionals looking to better understand and serve their customers.

After the event, Floor Trends & Installation and Stone World will host a cocktail reception celebrating the launch of the study at their booth 3575

Those unable to attend the live presentation can access an executive summary and preview materials through the My Clear Opinion Insights Hub website or through Floor Trends & Installation. The presentation aims to provide actionable insights for tile and stone professionals while encouraging attendance at the full session at TISE.