DALLAS -– For the 2003 edition of the flooring industry's biggest trade exposition organizers of Surfaces are introducing a new Innovative Retailer 2003 contest designed to showcase the best ideas for retailer innovation.

Retailers across the country are being asked to submit their best idea for growing profit, reducing expenses and more efficient business operations online at www.SurfacesExpo.com by Dec. 13. The retailer with the best idea will win a trip to Surfaces 2003 including round-trip airfare and hotel accommodations, full registration to exhibits and the Surfaces Conference Program and a $2,500 cash prize.

Retailers who submit the second- and third-place ideas will receive cash prizes of $1,000 and $500, respectively.

To ensure that the ideas are seen from a full industry perspective, the judging committee will consist of representatives from leading flooring industry trade publications, including National Floor Trends magazine, as well as the World Floor Covering Association (WFCA).

The top 100 ideas submitted for the contest will be available to all Surfaces 2003 attendees. Using an access code, attendees can enter the Surfaces web site after the show and print or download the ideas. They need only to stop by the Armstrong, Mannington, Mohawk or Shaw booths at Surfaces 2003 to obtain the code.

The Innovative Retailer 2003 contest is open to floor covering retailers who register for Surfaces 2003 by Dec. 13. One entry per person will be accepted and all ideas must be submitted online at www.SurfacesExpo.com.